Cat Pregnancy: Information That Everyone Needs To Know
- Author: Monica Jackson
- Posted: 2024-06-21
Cats are not wild animals, so a litter is hardly unusual. They often give birth to three or four kittens at once, but their mating habits can differ from the general population due to their solitary nature. Furthermore, female cats may mate with other cats multiple times during their fertile period.
How Do Cats Mate?
Most tomcats are polygamous, meaning they can mate with several females in a short time. Male cats are more aggressive than females, especially when the female is receptive. Mating season varies among cat breeds. Some breeds have longer mating periods, while others (such as the Maine Coon) are sexually active throughout the year. Male cats tend to be aggressive when mating, as they may fight with another male for the opportunity to mate with a female. Therefore, spaying or neutering is highly recommended for all pets.
How Long Does Cat Pregnancy Last?
Cat pregnancy can last from 63-66 days, depending on the mother's health and body. If the mother is healthy, she can produce a litter of kittens anytime during her pregnancy. If the mother is sick, her body will slow down milk production, leading to prolonged pregnancy.
How To Know a Cat Is Pregnant
Cat's pregnancy is not much different from a human's pregnancy. A cat's pregnancy lasts approximately 9 weeks. Some common signs during the early stages of cat pregnancy include:
• Increased appetite: A pregnant cat's appetite will usually increase due to the growing fetus and the extra energy required to support it.
• Weight gain: The cat might gain one to two kilograms during pregnancy. She will continue to gain weight during the nursing period.
• Cravings: Pregnant cats usually crave foods they normally don't eat.
• Sleep: Your cat will probably sleep more during pregnancy.
• Vomiting: Vomiting is common in early pregnancy but goes away as the pregnancy progresses.
• Frequent urination: The pregnant cat will urinate more frequently due to the increased levels of hormones in her body.
• Nesting: The cat might start to nest, so she will look for a safe and comfortable place to have her kittens.
• Restlessness: The cat might become more restless and vocal as the pregnancy progresses and she starts to feel uncomfortable.
• Slight swelling of the belly: During the last few weeks of pregnancy, the cat's belly will swell slightly as the kittens grow.
• Milk production: The cat's mammary glands will swell and produce milk in the last few days before giving birth.
However, other health issues could trigger these signs, so it is best to take your cat to the vet for a check-up if you suspect she might be pregnant. She will begin looking for a safe and private place to have her kittens about two weeks before the cat is due to give birth. Once she has found a suitable location, she will build a nest out of soft materials like blankets or towels.
How To Know the Cat Is in Labor
As the time for labor approaches, the cat's appetite will decrease, and she will become restless. She will pace around her nest and vocalize more than usual. Her temperature will drop below 100°F (37.8°C) about 24 hours before labor begins.
The cat will begin labor by producing strong, regular contractions that will cause her to bear down. She may vocalize more during this time. You may also notice some discharge from the vulva. The bloody show is a good indication that labor is imminent. The first kitten will be born within 60 minutes of the start of labor. Each subsequent kitten will be born every 30 to 60 minutes.
When To Call the Vet
Call the vet when you notice labor signs during your cat's first labor to ensure a smooth process. If you have any concerns during labor, or if the kittens are not being born within 60 minutes of each other, call the vet immediately.
When the kitten is born, it will be covered in a white, waxy substance called vernix. You should not panic because it's normal. The substance helps protect the kitten's skin from the amniotic fluid surrounding it in the womb. Vernix is also a good indicator of how much time the kitten has been in the womb; the more vernix, the less time the kitten has been gestating.
Cat pregnancy is a beautiful and amazing time for both the cat and the owner. The above information will help you prepare for this special time and avoid complications. Remember to give the cat plenty of love and attention during this time, as she will need it. Also, consult your veterinarian throughout the pregnancy to ensure that everything is progressing normally.
