Cats Pregnant: 10 Telltale Signs & Care Tips

Part 1: Symptoms of a Pregnant Cat

As mentioned earlier, due to individual differences among cats, the timing of their deliveries can vary slightly. However, this variation is generally minimal. Once a cat is three months pregnant, pet owners should be prepared for the upcoming birth at any time.

In the early stages of pregnancy, the symptoms may not be very noticeable. The primary indicators include the nipples becoming prominent and the hair around them starting to fall out. Around one month into the pregnancy, the cat's belly will begin to visibly expand, her appetite will increase, and her breasts will grow larger. This is the perfect time for the owner to take the cat to a veterinary clinic for an ultrasound to assess the pregnancy. Approximately four days before the expected delivery, a DR (Xray) examination can be conducted to determine the number of kittens and the due date.

Part 2: The Birthing Process of a Cat

1. Before the cat goes into labor, she may exhibit signs of restlessness, milk leakage from the nipples, and frequent entry and exit from the nesting area. It is essential for the owner to prepare a spacious nesting area for the cat to prevent her from accidentally crushing the kittens during delivery. Additionally, items like oral glucose and canned cat food should be on hand to quickly replenish her energy if she becomes exhausted during the birthing process.

2. During labor, the owner should ensure that the nesting area remains quiet to avoid causing stress to the cat due to unusual noises, which could hinder the birthing process. Typically, within three hours after the amniotic fluid breaks, the cat will deliver the first kitten. Subsequent kittens are usually born at intervals of 10 to 30 minutes. If the interval between deliveries exceeds an hour and the cat appears to be in distress, it may be experiencing difficulty giving birth. In such cases, the owner should consult a veterinarian immediately to help the cat through the crisis.

3. After the birth, the owner should promptly provide the cat with water and then feed her a highprotein diet to assist in milk production. For the newborn kittens, it is important to feed them every 1 to 2 hours and ensure they are kept warm.

These are the details provided by Oxygen Pet Doctor regarding the signs of a pregnant cat and the necessary care that pet owners should consider. We hope your cat has a smooth and safe delivery, bringing joy to your home with the arrival of her adorable kittens.