Early-weaned piglets lose an average of 6.9 ± 2.4 % of their body weight in the weaning process. They lose weight for an average of 2.4 ± 1.2 days and regain weaning weight at 3.7 ± 0.98 days. This growth check is a welfare concern as, during this period, piglets are not consuming enough feed and water to meet their physiological needs. It is also a high-risk period for disease, especially diarrhea, and a period of economic loss. Diarrhea, at the time of weaning, can add to the risk of dehydration if piglets are not consuming adequate amounts of water. Up to the point of weaning, young piglets have gained most of their fluid and nourishment through nursing. After weaning, piglets have to learn to consume water and dry feed separately. This may be difficult for some piglets to learn and inadequate water consumption can lead to dehydration. Earlier work has shown that piglets weaned into pens with water and feed show an increase in hematocrit indicative of failure to maintain adequate water consumption. In fact piglets weaned into pens with water and piglets transported without water show similar increases in hematocrit. Adequate water consumption is also necessary to encourage feed consumption. Water consumption by early-weaned piglets is therefore important for early recovery. In this research project we asked the question: If we added something which tasted good (electrolyte solution) to the water would we increase water consumption in the critical 3 day growth check period post weaning? Seventy-two piglets were weaned at 17±1 day of age. Half of this group was placed in simulated transport for 24 h and the other half were placed straight into pens with feed and water. A medicated diet was supplied in standard feeders. Water was supplied through standard water nipples and was gravity fed from containers that could be weighed to measure water consumption. These containers were filled with tap water or water containing an electrolyte solution for 3 days after entry into the pens. On the 4th day all pens received tap water only. The study confirmed that the use of electrolytes in water may help piglets to retain weight and fluid status during the first week after weaning. However, more work is needed to determine the dose and number of days which will be needed to encourage fluid consumption but which will also encourage feed consumption. Spill is also a problem that will need to be addressed.