The gestation period is the time during which kittens develop inside their pregnant mother’s body. Most cats carry between one and eight kittens at a time, and their bellies grow significantly during this period.
How Do You Know Your Cat Is Pregnant?
Unspayed female cats go into heat for 5 to 14 days during mating season, typically in warmer months. While in heat, a cat may display unusual behaviors, such as raising her hindquarters, secreting fluids, and making sounds that differ from normal meowing. She may seem restless due to unmet instinctual needs. This cycle can repeat every two to three weeks if she doesn’t mate. The only ways to stop this behavior are to spay her or allow her to mate with a male cat.
Once a female cat mates and becomes pregnant, she typically stops going into heat within 24 hours. Signs of pregnancy become noticeable about two to three weeks after conception. Her nipples may become engorged and turn a deep pink color, and her abdomen will gradually enlarge. She may eat more and demand additional food. Some cats experience morning sickness, similar to humans. A key indicator is the absence of heat cycles. Unlike human pregnancy tests, blood tests aren’t used to confirm cat pregnancies. Veterinarians can diagnose pregnancy by palpating the cat’s abdomen after three to four weeks, and X-rays can reveal developing kittens around six weeks.
Length of Gestation
A cat’s gestation period typically lasts about 65 days. During this time, the female’s abdomen grows larger daily. If a cat remains pregnant beyond 69 days or begins birthing prematurely, consult a veterinarian for professional advice.
Personality and Behavior During Gestation
During pregnancy, your cat may become more affectionate than usual, seeking extra attention from humans and possibly other cats in the household. Embrace her need for affection and ensure her comfort.
She may also search the house for a secluded, safe spot to rest, preparing for birth. She avoids high-traffic areas to protect her kittens. Additionally, she may rest more frequently, as carrying multiple kittens can be physically taxing.
How Do You Know Your Cat Is Ready to Give Birth?
As the gestation period nears its end, your cat may become restless and struggle to find a comfortable position. She may hide more often and occasionally have accidents due to her enlarged uterus pressing against her bladder, making it harder to reach the litter box.
Provide a covered bed or box for her to relax and give birth in. Signs that she’s ready to deliver include howling, a drop in body temperature, and a milky discharge from her nipples. Soon after, she will begin giving birth. If she hasn’t reached the prepared box, make her as comfortable as possible. In some cases, she may choose a hidden spot, like a closet, to deliver her kittens, surprising you with a litter when you least expect it.
Post-Natal Care
After giving birth, handle the mother cat gently. Take her and her kittens to a veterinarian for a check-up to ensure the queen receives proper medical care. At home, provide fresh water and food. During nursing, the mother expends significant energy feeding her kittens. Some experts recommend feeding her kitten food, which is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, to help her regain strength. After weaning, her kittens can also benefit from this diet. Ensure the mother and kittens have a quiet, safe environment. Consult your veterinarian for additional guidance on helping the mother recover and stay active.
The gestation period for cats lasts about two months, during which your “queen” will undergo many changes. Personality shifts are normal, so don’t be alarmed. However, watch for abnormal signs like excessive discharge, foul vaginal odor, or greenish-yellow discharge. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy and birth.
