In a digital dating zootopia, surely something separates the smell of sizzling bacon from going the whole bareback hog — so what does it really mean to be a gay pig and who qualifies?
While some gay subcultures (such as bears and twinks) have clear characteristics, one of these doesn’t quite squeeze its curly tail into a box along with the others: gay pigs.
There’s not a sausage of evidence to suggest these curious critters all outwardly present in the same way.
Young, mature, svelte, muscled, chunky, furry, and everything in between. What’s ubiquitous for those with a porcine propensity (that’s the animal family name for pigs by the way) are behaviour-based characteristics.
Don’t be a boar (or do!)… let us take you into the world of pig play and why gay and bi+ guys love it so much.
What is a gay pig?
If you find yourself squealing with delight at the mention of any of these in a sexual setting, perhaps you might be a gay little piggy too:
- Anal play with toys
- Armpits or body odour
- Bodily fluids
- Fisting
- Group sex or threesomes
- Spit or sweat
- Underwear, socks or sneakers
- Piercings
Although no formal description of the ‘gay pig’ term seems to exist, Urban Dictionary offers a definition dating back to 2003: “A homosexual man who likes to have dirty sex, including watersports and lots of ejaculate.”
Other definitions floating around the world wide web use terms such as kinky, sleazy, raunchy and seedy. We could split hairs over how each of those is described in the dictionary, but you probably get the gist by now. Though if you’re curious for more, check out our guide to kink for beginners.
How does pig play work?
If you find yourself flirting with a view to heavy petting one of these prize pigs, it’s a great opportunity to ask about what kind of activities you might mutually enjoy together. This could be spit, cum, piss and more. It’ll set the vibe for your encounter and get you both in the mood for some serious fun.
The essence of pig play is that it pushes the boundaries of sexual exploration, emphasizing a willingness to engage with less traditional or even taboo sexual practices.
Here’s a great time to bring up which HIV or STI prevention strategies (condoms, PrEP or UVL) you might like to use.
Also, discussing your limits — or even declaring if you have none — can help make sure everyone’s clear with what you choose to get up to when getting down to business.
If you’re getting into some more intense piggy activities such as fisting or group play, make sure you have a safe word or gesture (in case their mouth is occupied) that signals to stop.
Then play away!
Check-in with your partner(s) throughout the session, and practice some aftercare (cuddling, eating, showering together) afterwards.
Why do people engage in pig play?
The popularity of proclaiming a gay piggy persona on profiles across dating apps reflects how more and more gay and bisexual men are comfortable communicating the kind of sex they enjoy, as well as discussing sexual safety practices.
There’s a sense of novelty and healthy sexual exploration that pig play provides. It’s a space to explore fantasies and desires, and perhaps engage in dom or sub power dynamics.
Pig play also offers social connection with people who share similar liberated interests and sexual preferences.
Ultimately, any one of us has the opportunity to consider ourselves a gay pig (or not) regardless of the kind of sex we enjoy. If it’s legal, consensual and enjoyable, then surely a little of what you fancy can’t be a bad thing?
Sexual safety for swines
Gay pig sex might involve all sorts of bodily fluids, which can increase the risk of HIV and other STIs. You can maximise your protection by using strategies such as condoms, PrEP, managing an undetectable viral load if you’re living with HIV, or PEP when it’s needed.
It’s even possible to combine strategies, serving up a platter of possible ways to stay safe. Hog whatever works harmoniously for you and check out Wanna compare tools? Here’s how safe sex choices measure up down under for our handy guide to comparing strategies.
For more on boosting your safety and enjoyment, check out Emen8’s Knowledge Hub as well as getting the lowdown from these online resources produced specially for guys who enjoy a more adventurous trot on the wild side: Down An’ Dirty.