How Long Does a Cat's Pregnancy Last? Everything You Need to Know

A cat's pregnancy is a fascinating and changing process for both her and her owners. If your feline is expecting kittens, it's only natural that you have a lot of questions about what's to come. In this blog, we'll guide you through everything you need to know about pregnancy in cats - from how long it lasts, key symptoms, to essential care and precautions you should take. Whether you're an experienced cat owner or facing this process for the first time, you'll find the information you need to ensure that both your cat and her future kittens are healthy and safe here.

Symptoms of a pregnant cat

• Changes in appetite: Your cat may eat more than usual as she needs more nutrients for her growing kittens.
• Weight gain: You will notice a gradual increase in your cat's weight, especially in the abdominal region.
• Behavioral Changes: Pregnant cats may experience changes in cat body language , they tend to become more affectionate or, in some cases, more reserved.
• Nipple enlargement: A cat's nipples become enlarged and may become more pink or reddish in color, a process known as "pinking."
• Nesting: Towards the end of pregnancy, your cat may begin to seek out quiet, safe places to prepare a nest for her future kittens.
• Increased frequency of urination: As kittens grow, they may put pressure on their mother's bladder, resulting in an increased need to urinate.
• Changes in activity: Some cats may become less active as pregnancy progresses compared to hyperactive cats , so they may no longer be attracted to cat games.

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Stages of pregnancy in a cat

A cat's pregnancy, also known as gestation, lasts approximately 63 to 65 days, although this can vary slightly. This period can be divided into several stages, each with its own developments and changes for both the mother and the kittens.

Stage 1 (Week 1-3): Early in pregnancy, after fertilization, the embryos implant in the uterus. For the first three weeks, there may be no visible signs of pregnancy, although some cats may show a slight increase in appetite and changes in behavior, becoming more affectionate or, in some cases, more reserved. The cat's nipples may begin to become pinker and more prominent, a phenomenon known as "pinking."

Stage 2 (Weeks 4-6): At this stage, the embryos are developing rapidly and the cat begins to show more obvious signs of pregnancy. Her abdomen will begin to visibly enlarge as the kittens grow. The nipples will continue to increase in size and may become darker. The cat may show an increased appetite and may require more food and water to support the developing fetuses. She may also begin to show nesting behaviors, seeking out quiet, safe places to give birth.

Stage 3 (Week 7-9): In the last few weeks of pregnancy, the kittens are almost fully formed and continue to grow in size. The cat may become considerably larger and her abdomen will feel firm to the touch. You may notice the kittens moving around inside her abdomen. The cat may become more restless and spend more time preparing her nest. In the last week, her appetite may decrease slightly as the kittens take up more space in her abdomen, making eating large meals uncomfortable for her.

Labor (Week 9): When the cat is ready to give birth, her behavior will change noticeably. She may become very restless, lick her genitals frequently, and constantly search for her nest. Labor usually begins with visible contractions and can last for several hours. The cat will give birth to each kitten at intervals of 10 to 60 minutes. After each birth, the mother will clean the kitten and bite the umbilical cord.

Throughout the pregnancy, it is crucial to provide the cat with a calm and safe environment, an adequate diet and regular visits to the vet to ensure that both mother and kittens are healthy.

What is the behavior of a pregnant cat?

A pregnant cat's behavior often changes as she progresses. At first, you may notice that she becomes more affectionate and seeks more attention, or on the contrary, that she becomes more reserved and seeks a quiet place to rest. As the pregnancy progresses, the cat may become more protective of her space and seek out dark, comfortable places where she could give birth. It is also common for her to reduce her physical activity and spend more time sleeping. As labor approaches, her appetite may increase, and she may begin "nesting" - seeking or preparing a suitable place to have her babies.

How many months does a cat's pregnancy last?

A cat's pregnancy lasts approximately two months, or between 63 and 65 days.

How many cats can a first-time cat have?

A first-time mother cat may have between 1 and 5 kittens in her first litter. The exact number can vary depending on factors such as breed, the cat's health, and genetics.

What should I do if my cat is pregnant?

If your cat is pregnant, here are some important steps to follow:

• Take your cat to the vet to confirm the pregnancy and receive advice on prenatal care.
• Provide a nutrient-rich diet specifically formulated for pregnant or nursing cats to ensure that she and her kittens get the necessary nutrients. Do this with the help of your trusted veterinarian.
• Create a calm and safe environment for your cat, free from stress and loud noises.
• Provide a comfortable, private whelping box where she can give birth and care for her kittens. Place soft blankets or towels in the box.
• Observe any changes in behavior and health. If you notice anything unusual, consult your veterinarian.
• Allow your cat to get moderate exercise, but avoid rough play or situations that could cause stress or injury.
• During labor, make sure your cat is in a safe, quiet place. Observe, but intervene only if necessary and under the guidance of a veterinarian.

What should I not do if my cat is pregnant?

If your cat is pregnant, it is crucial to avoid certain actions to ensure her well-being. You should not abruptly change her diet, as this could cause digestive problems; instead, make any dietary adjustments gradually and always under the supervision of a veterinarian. Avoid subjecting her to stressful situations, such as moving house, changes in her environment or the presence of other aggressive animals. Do not force her to do intense exercise or handle her excessively, especially in the later stages of pregnancy. Also, do not administer medications without a veterinarian's recommendation, as some can be dangerous to her health and that of the kittens. Finally, avoid leaving her alone during labor without supervision, although it is also important not to intervene unnecessarily to allow the process to occur naturally.

How to know if a cat is going to give birth?

You'll know your cat is about to give birth when you notice some clear changes in her behavior. She might become more restless and look for quiet places to nest, preparing for the arrival of the kittens. It's also common for her to lose her appetite and lick her genitals frequently. Her abdomen will look large and you might even feel or see movements inside her belly. When contractions begin, your cat will likely be more vocal and seek out your company or, on the contrary, prefer to be alone in her nest.

How to help a cat that is giving birth?

When a cat is giving birth, it's important to create a calm, safe environment. Provide a clean, comfortable box or area with soft blankets where she can give birth. Make sure the space is in a quiet place, away from noise or distractions. During labor, watch discreetly from a distance, avoiding interfering unless absolutely necessary, such as in the case of visible complications. If you notice the cat having problems, such as prolonged contractions without any kittens being born or excessive bleeding, contact a veterinarian immediately. Keep fresh water and food available for the mother after delivery.

Conclusion

In conclusion, caring for your cat during pregnancy is a rewarding experience that requires attention and affection. Now that you know everything you need to know about this process, you can be prepared to accompany your feline at every stage. And what better way to reward her effort and strengthen the bond between you than with Waggy's Bites, a 100% natural treat made with the best proteins and enriched with Omegas 3, 6 and 9. Give her the best on the market and share unique moments with your cat during this very special stage. Get your Waggy's Bites and celebrate her well-being together!