piglet

Piglet is the term for a young pig, typically a domestic pig (Sus scrofa domesticus) or, less commonly, a wild boar offspring. Piglets are born after a gestation of about 114 days and usually weigh between 1 and 3 kilograms at birth. They are able to stand and move soon after birth and begin nursing from the sow within minutes or hours.

In commercial production, piglets remain with the sow for several weeks. Weaning commonly occurs between three and six weeks of age, though practices vary. After weaning, piglets are transitioned to starter feeds with higher energy and protein to support rapid growth.

Piglets are highly social and learning is rapid through interaction with the sow and littermates. They use vocalizations and scent to communicate and display rooting, play, and exploratory behavior. Proper husbandry—adequate warmth, nutrition, and protection from diseases—supports survival and growth. Neonatal piglets are vulnerable to cold, starvation, and disease, and common health concerns include diarrhea and hypoglycemia, which are mitigated by timely access to colostrum, good hygiene, and appropriate feeding.

In wild populations, wild boar piglets are born in litters that typically include several offspring, often four to eight or more, and they remain with the mother while learning foraging and social behaviors before becoming independent.

Etymology: the term piglet combines pig with the diminutive suffix -let, indicating a small pig.