Earliest Time Cats Start Producing Milk During Pregnanc

Expectant queens typically carry their kittens for about 60 days. Just before giving birth, usually 1 to 2 days prior, they begin to produce colostrum, the first milk that is rich in nutrients essential for the newborns. This colostrum is a creamy yellow color and is promptly licked up by the mother, making it challenging for owners to notice its presence. The appearance of colostrum is a sign that the queen is nearing her delivery, and it's time for owners to prepare for the impending birth.

When Does a Pregnant Queen Start Producing Milk?

Queens usually start secreting milk 1 to 2 days before giving birth. During the early and middle stages of pregnancy, there is no milk production. The initial milk, or colostrum, is milky yellow and is quickly consumed by the mother, often going unnoticed by owners. The presence of colostrum indicates that the queen is about to deliver. During this time, the queen may become more affectionate and her body temperature may drop, usually below 38°C. It's advisable to move the queen to the birthing area, gather all the necessary supplies, and feed her highenergy food to build up her strength for the delivery.

During the birth, it's best for owners to observe quietly and not interfere. If the queen seems to be struggling, provide her with energy supplements. In case of dystocia, where the queen has been in labor for a prolonged period without delivering any kittens, it's crucial to seek veterinary assistance immediately.

How Long Does a Cat's Nursing Period Last?

The nursing period for cats lasts for about a month and a half. After this time, the queen will stop producing milk, and it's important for owners to wean the kittens accordingly. During this period, it's ideal to let the queen nurse her kittens as long as her milk supply is sufficient. The milk is packed with nutrients, including proteins, fats, calcium, iron, amino acids, minerals, and trace elements, as well as maternal antibodies that protect the kittens from diseases. Ensuring the kittens receive the colostrum promptly after birth is crucial.

How to Determine if a Queen's Milk Supply Is Sufficient?

1. Monitor the kittens' weight: If the queen's milk is abundant and the kittens are receiving adequate nutrition, their weight should increase daily. Owners should weigh each kitten regularly and keep a record to ensure they are getting enough to eat. If the kittens' weight stops increasing or decreases, it may indicate insufficient milk or competition for the milk.

2. Observe the kittens' behavior: When kittens are not getting enough milk, they may exhibit signs such as frequent crying, appearing weak, or showing signs of exhaustion.

If the queen's milk supply is low, owners should provide her with additional nutrition to boost her milk production. Feeding the queen highcalorie foods and ensuring she has access to fresh water is essential. During the first few days after birth, offering her foods like fish soup or goat's milk can be beneficial. During the nursing period, feed her highquality dry food and provide her with a variety of nutritious options, including canned food, wet food, and homemade meals. However, it's important not to overfeed the queen; her diet should be adjusted based on her milk production. If her milk supply is sufficient, maintain her diet and avoid overnutrition to prevent engorgement and mastitis.

Understanding the queen's milk production is crucial for providing the best care for both her and her kittens. We hope this information deepens your understanding and helps you nurture your queen and her kittens more effectively.