Cat Pregnancy Symptoms & Changes: A Comprehensive Guide

Section 1: Signs of a Pregnant Queen Cat

1. Initially, a pregnant cat may exhibit minimal symptoms. During the first ten days postconception, the cat might skip meals in the morning. Pet owners can take their cat to a veterinary clinic around the 18th day postcoitus for an ultrasound to confirm pregnancy.

2. After about 20 days, the cat's appetite may increase, and some may experience occasional vomiting, which are typical signs of pregnancy. As the gestation progresses, the cat's belly will gradually swell, and later stages will show visible movements of the kittens.

3. The queen cat tends to seek out quiet, warm, and welllit spots to rest. When all is well, her sleep posture is often relaxed, lying down as her body stretches. Physically, the nipples will turn pink and the breasts will begin to swell around the 20th day of pregnancy.

4. Some cats may exhibit a change in temperament, becoming more irritable or moody. By this stage, their waistline will start to broaden.

5. At around 50 days, the kittens should be welldeveloped. The nipples will become larger and redder, and there might be a small amount of milk secretion. The cat may become more sleepy, and when gently touched, the presence of the kittens can be felt. However, one must be careful not to apply pressure that could harm the kittens or cause a miscarriage.

6. Approximately 63 days into pregnancy, the queen cat will be preparing for labor. She will wander around the home, searching for a secluded, comfortable spot to give birth.

Note: Some cats may experience pseudopregnancy, which can mimic the symptoms of actual pregnancy. If in doubt, a catspecific pregnancy test strip can be purchased online to test for pregnancy, as using a human pregnancy test may not be accurate.

Section 2: Feeding During Pregnancy

It's crucial to ensure that a pregnant cat receives adequate nutrition. After the first month of pregnancy, the kittens inside the queen cat's belly begin to grow rapidly, and her body's metabolism intensifies, requiring more nutrients to support energy. Therefore, pet owners should supplement her diet appropriately, focusing on highquality, compact cat food rich in protein. It's also advisable to reduce carbohydrate intake, as the cat's activity level decreases during pregnancy. Excessive carbohydrates or fats can lead to obesity, which may cause difficulties during delivery. Since the kittens take up a significant amount of space in the abdomen, the queen cat should be fed in smaller, more frequent meals. If the owner is unable to prepare homemade food, switching to a reputable brand's specialized prenatal cat food is recommended.

For any further questions about cat pregnancy symptoms, changes after pregnancy, or any concerns related to cat births, feel free to consult an online veterinary expert!