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Pregnant Cat Behavior & Care: A Comprehensive Guide

• Reina Marie Gonzales
• October 3, 2023December 4, 2023
• 0

Last Updated: December 4, 2023

Pregnancy in cats is a fascinating journey, and as cat owners, it’s essential to understand what to expect and how to provide the best care for your expecting feline. In this extensive guide, we’ll explore the various aspects of pregnant cat behavior and care. From when a cat can get pregnant to recognizing the signs of labor and caring for your cat during and after birth, I’ve got you covered.

So, if you’re eagerly awaiting the arrival of kittens or just curious about the process, let’s embark on this journey together.

What Age Can a Cat Become Pregnant?

A feline can become pregnant as young as four months of age, but it may vary depending on the breed and the individual cat. Smaller breeds tend to reach sexual maturity sooner than larger breeds, and some cats may go into heat later or earlier than others.

How Does a Cat Get Pregnant?

A cat can get pregnant when she is in heat, which is the time when she is fertile and prepared for mating. Her heat cycle is influenced by the seasons, the daylight hours, and her environment. She can go into heat every two to three weeks from spring to fall, and each heat cycle lasts about six days.

A cat’s heat cycle has three phases: pro-estrus, estrus, and inter-estrus. Pro-estrus is the stage before estrus, where the cat is not yet receptive to mating. Estrus is the stage where the cat is receptive to mating and will show behavioral changes such as being more affectionate, vocal, restless, or marking her territory with urine. Inter-estrus, on the other hand, is the stage between cycles where the cat is not in heat.

Cats are “induced ovulators”, which means that the act of mating triggers their ovaries to release eggs for fertilization. As such, there’s no need to synchronize mating with a specific ovulation event. If your cat mates with a male cat during her estrus period, she can become pregnant. A male cat senses when a female cat is in heat and will try to court her by rubbing, licking, biting, or vocalizing.

In addition, even if your cat is already pregnant, she can continue to mate with other cats for a short period and may give birth to a litter with multiple fathers.

How Many Kittens Can a Cat Give Birth To?

Various factors influence the size of a cat’s litter. Some of these factors are:

Genetics and breed

Some breeds of cats tend to have larger or smaller litters than others. For example, Siamese, Maine Coons, Ragdolls, and Ragamuffins are known for having big litters, while Persians usually have fewer kittens. Also, if your cat’s mother or father had large or small litters, your cat may inherit that trait.

Age

Younger cats, especially first-time mothers, tend to have smaller litters than older cats. The average litter size for a first-time mom is two to three kittens. However, as the cat gets older, her litter size may decrease again due to reduced fertility.

Health and nutrition

A cat in good health and well-fed is likelier to have a larger and healthier litter than a sick or malnourished cat. Diseases, infections, parasites, and stress can affect the development of the fetuses and cause miscarriages or reabsorptions. Therefore, it is important to provide your pregnant cat with a balanced diet, fresh water, and a comfortable environment.

RELATED: What Foods Can Cats Eat That Humans Eat?

Frequency of breeding

Cats that are bred more often tend to have smaller litters than cats that are bred less frequently. This is because the uterus becomes less hospitable for implantation after repeated pregnancies.

If you wish to keep your cat from becoming pregnant, you should consider spaying or neutering them.

So, how can you tell how many kittens your cat is having? Well, there is no sure way to know until the delivery day, but there are some methods that can help you estimate the litter size. These methods include:

•  Abdominal palpation: This is when a veterinarian gently feels the abdomen of the pregnant cat to detect the presence of fetuses. This method can be done after 21 days of gestation, but it is not very accurate and may cause discomfort or harm to the mother or the kittens.

•  Ultrasound: This is when a veterinarian uses sound waves to create an image of the inside of the pregnant cat’s body. This method can be done after 21 days of gestation as well, and it is more accurate and safer than palpation. However, it may still miss some fetuses or count them twice.

•  X-ray: This is when a veterinarian uses radiation to produce an image of the bones and organs of the pregnant cat. This method can be done after 45 days of gestation, when the skeletons of the kittens are visible. This method provides the most precise and dependable way to determine the size of the litter.

Knowing how many kittens your cat is having can help you prepare for the delivery and care for the newborns. However, you should also be ready for any surprises or complications that may arise during or after the birth.

Cat Gestation & The Signs Your Cat is Pregnant

Knowing the stages of cat pregnancy can help you understand what your cat is going through and how to care for her and her kittens.

Cat gestation lasts about ten weeks, or 64 days, although the duration can vary between 61 and 72 days. It is also usually divided into the following five stages:

1.    Fertilization

This is when a cat mates with a male cat, and the egg is fertilized by the sperm. This usually happens during the cat’s heat cycle.

Fertilization triggers ovulation and the start of pregnancy.

2.    Embryo Development

This is when the fertilized egg becomes an embryo and implants in the uterus. This phase typically lasts approximately 20 days.

During this time, the cat may show some signs of pregnancy, such as:

• Enlarged and reddened nipples (called pinking-up)
• Morning sickness
• Increased appetite 

These signs may not be very noticeable, especially in first-time mothers.

3.    Late Gestation

This is when the embryos become fully formed kittens and grow in size and weight. This stage lasts about 20–25 days.  During this time, the cat will show more obvious signs of pregnancy, such as:

• Weight gain
• Belly swelling
• Behavioral changes

4.    Pre-Labor

This is when the cat prepares for labor and delivery. This stage lasts about a week. During this time, the cat may show some signs of pre-labor, such as:

• Nesting behavior
• Loss of appetite
• Drop in body temperature
• Vaginal discharge
• Increased grooming and licking of genitals

5.    Labor

This is when the cat gives birth to her kittens. This stage can last from a few hours to a day. During this time, the cat will show some signs of labor, such as:

• Panting
• Straining
• Vocalizing
• Pushing

The first kitten usually arrives within an hour after labor begins, followed by a new kitten every 15 to 20 minutes until all are born. The cat will clean up her kittens and eat the placentas to recover from the birth.

Why do cats undergo behavioral changes when pregnant?

Cats undergo behavioral changes when pregnant because they are affected by the physical and psychological changes that occur during pregnancy. Some of the factors that influence their behavior are:

Hormones

Cats have increased levels of hormones such as progesterone, estrogen, and prolactin during pregnancy. These hormones affect their mood, behavior, and perception. They may also have enhanced senses of smell, hearing, and touch that make them more aware of potential threats or dangers to themselves or their kittens.

Stress

Cats may experience stress and anxiety during pregnancy due to changes in their body, environment, or routine. They may also feel uncomfortable or heavy with their enlarged belly. As such, stress can make them more irritable, aggressive, or nervous.

Maternal instincts

Cats may develop strong maternal instincts during pregnancy. They may become more protective of their kittens and spend most of their time with them. They may also groom them, nurse them, teach them, and play with them. In addition, they may look for a suitable place to give birth and nest.

Appetite

Cats may eat more and have a bigger appetite during pregnancy because they need more calories, protein, and nutrients to nourish themselves and their kittens. They may also develop food aversions or preferences that may change their eating habits, thus causing additional stress.

Pregnant Cat Behavior Before Birth

Here are some of the behavioral changes that you may notice in your pregnant cat before she gives birth. They are normal and natural responses to the physical and psychological changes that she is experiencing. However, should you have any questions or worries about her behavior or health, you should always consult your veterinarian for advice and care.

Increased Rest and Sleep

Your pregnant cat may sleep more and rest more than usual, especially in the later stages of pregnancy. This is because she needs more energy to support the growth and development of her kittens and also because she may feel uncomfortable or heavy with her enlarged belly.

To accommodate your cat’s need for more sleep and rest, you can do the following:

• Provide her with a comfortable, warm, and quiet place to sleep. You can use a pillow, a soft blanket, or a cat bed to make her feel cozy and secure.
• Avoid disturbing her when she is sleeping or resting. Try not to make loud noises, play with her, or move her around. Allow her to rest to her heart’s content.
• Respect her privacy and boundaries. If she wants to be alone or hide somewhere, don’t force her to come out or interact with you. She may need some space and time to relax and prepare for the birth.

Increased Appetite

Your pregnant cat may eat more and have a bigger appetite than usual, especially in the middle stages of pregnancy. This is because she needs more calories, protein, and nutrients to nourish herself and her kittens.

To manage your cat’s appetite and nutrition during pregnancy, you can do the following:

• Feed her a high-quality, balanced, and complete diet that is specifically formulated for cats that are pregnant or nursing. You can use dry or wet food, or a combination of both. You can also consult your veterinarian for a specific recommendation based on your cat’s age, weight, health condition, and litter size.
• Increase the amount of food gradually as the pregnancy progresses. You can feed her 1.5 times the normal amount at the final stages of the pregnancy. You can also divide the food into smaller and more frequent meals throughout the day.

• Regularly monitor your cat’s body condition and weight. You can use a body condition score chart or a scale to check if your cat is gaining too much or too little weight. Ideally, your cat should gain about 40 percent of her pre-pregnancy weight by the end of pregnancy. If your cat is overweight or underweight, you may need to make dietary adjustments.

• Watch out for any food aversions or preferences that your cat may develop during pregnancy. Some cats may become picky or fussy about their food, while others may crave certain foods or flavors. This is normal and usually harmless, as long as your cat is still eating enough and getting a variety of nutrients. However, if your cat stops eating completely or only eats one kind of food for a long time, you should contact your veterinarian for advice.

Heightened Sensitivity

Your pregnant cat may become more sensitive to her surroundings and stimuli during pregnancy. To reduce her stress and anxiety and provide her with a calm environment, you can do the following:

• Avoid disrupting or making any changes in your cat’s lifestyle and routine. Try to keep everything as normal and consistent as possible for her. Avoid moving furniture, introducing new pets or people, traveling, or changing litter boxes or food bowls during pregnancy.
• Avoid exposing your cat to loud noises, strong smells, bright lights, or unfamiliar objects that may scare or stress her out. You can use curtains, blankets, or cardboard boxes to create a dark and quiet space for her to retreat to if she feels overwhelmed.
• Use positive reinforcement and gentle handling to reassure your cat that she is safe and loved. You can give her treats, toys, praise, or petting when she behaves calmly and confidently.

Increased Affection and Seeking Comfort

Your pregnant cat may become more affectionate and seek comfort from you during pregnancy. She may cuddle with you more often, purr more loudly, rub against you more frequently, or follow you around more closely. This is because she wants to bond with you and feel your love and support.

To recognize your cat’s need for comfort and offer emotional support, you can do the following:

• Respond to your cat’s affection with kindness and gentleness. You can stroke her head, scratch her chin, massage her back, or kiss her nose. You can also talk to her softly and sweetly, telling her how much you love her and how proud you are of her.
• Provide your cat with safe spaces where she can relax and feel secure. You can use a cat tree, a window perch, a sofa cushion, or a cozy corner. You can also use a blanket, a pillow, or a heating pad to make her feel warm and comfortable.
• Spend quality time with your cat every day. You can play with her gently and moderately, using toys that are safe and appropriate for pregnant cats. You can also groom her carefully and gently using a soft brush or comb. In addition, you can read to her, watch TV with her, or nap with her.

Changes in Social Interaction

Your pregnant cat may change how she interacts with other pets or people during pregnancy. She may become more aggressive or territorial towards other animals that she perceives as threats or competitors. She may also become more selective or cautious about who she trusts or allows near her or her kittens.

To deal with your cat’s aggression and territoriality, you can do the following:

• Keep your pregnant cat separated from other pets in your house until after she gives birth and settles down with her kittens. You can use a baby gate, a door lock, or a crate to prevent any unwanted contact or confrontation.
• Introduce your pregnant cat to other pets gradually and carefully after she gives birth and settles down with her kittens.
• Limit the number of visitors that come to see your pregnant cat or her kittens. You can ask your friends, family, or neighbors to wait until your cat is ready and comfortable to meet them. You can also ask them to be quiet, gentle, and respectful when they visit. Additionally, you can give your cat treats, toys, praise, or petting when she behaves calmly and confidently around visitors.

Mood Swings

Your pregnant cat may experience mood swings during pregnancy. She may become more affectionate or more aggressive at different times. She may also switch between being playful and being lazy. This is because she has fluctuating levels of hormones that affect her emotions and impulses.

To cope with your cat’s mood swings, you can do the following:

• Be patient and understanding with your cat. Don’t take her mood changes personally or get angry or frustrated with her. Remember that she is going through a lot of physical and psychological changes that are beyond her control.
• Follow your cat’s cues and signals. If she wants attention or interaction, give it to her. If she wants to be left alone or ignored, respect it. Don’t force your cat to do anything that she doesn’t want to do or that may upset her.
• Seek professional help if your cat’s mood swings become severe or harmful. If your cat becomes excessively aggressive, depressed, or anxious, or if she shows signs of pain, illness, or distress, you should reach out to your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Nesting Instincts

Your pregnant cat may develop nesting instincts during the last week of pregnancy. She may begin searching for an appropriate spot to give birth and raise her kittens. She may also start collecting and arranging bedding materials such as blankets, towels, or newspapers to create a comfortable, warm, and secure nest for herself and her kittens.

To build the perfect nest for your cat, you can do the following:

• Provide your cat with a large cardboard box or a plastic crate that has low sides and a removable lid. You can also use a laundry basket, a suitcase, or a drawer. Make sure the nest is big enough for your cat and her kittens to fit in comfortably, but not so big that they feel exposed or cold.
• Line the nest with soft and absorbent bedding materials such as blankets, towels, or newspapers. You can also use old clothes, pillows, or cushions. Avoid using materials that are fluffy, stringy, or slippery that may pose a choking or suffocation hazard for the kittens.
• Place the nest in a quiet, dark, and secluded area of your house that is away from noise, traffic, or disturbance. You can use a closet, a bathroom, a basement, or a spare room. Make sure the nest is easily accessible for you and your cat, but not for other pets or children.
• Let your cat choose and explore the nest at her own pace. Don’t force her to use it or move her to it if she doesn’t want to. She may have her own preferences or opinions about where to give birth. However, you can encourage her to use the nest by putting some of her favorite toys, treats, or scents in it.

Caring for Your Cat During Labor and Delivery

Giving birth is a natural and amazing process for cats, but it can also be stressful and unpredictable. As a cat owner, you want to make sure that your cat and her kittens are safe and healthy during this special time. Here are some tips to help you get ready for this big event:

Prepare for Your Cat’s Labor and Delivery

Before your cat goes into labor, you should do the following:

• Have your cat checked by a veterinarian regularly during her pregnancy. Your vet can oversee your cat’s well-being and the development of her kittens. They can also offer guidance on the optimal diet, exercise, and care for your pregnant cat. In addition, they may provide medications or deworm your cat if needed.

• Prepare her nest, as described above.
• Gather some supplies that you may need during or after birth. These include:
  • A second box or basket with a heating pad and a fleece pad to place the kittens in while the mother is delivering the next sibling.
  • A stack of clean towels or paper towels to help clean off the kittens if necessary.
  • Sterile hemostats and scissors with blunt ends to cut the umbilical cord if necessary
  • Matches and alcohol to sterilize the scissors and hemostats if necessary.
  • Heavy sewing thread, suture, or dental floss to tie the umbilical cord if necessary.
  • A scale or a body condition score chart to monitor the weight and health of the kittens.
  • A thermometer to check the temperature of the mother and the kittens.
  • A phone and a list of emergency contacts such as your veterinarian, an animal hospital, or a pet ambulance service

Recognize the Signs of Labor

When your cat is ready to give birth, you may notice some signs of labor, such as:

Nesting behavior

Your cat may begin searching for an appropriate place to deliver her kittens and arrange bedding materials in it. She may also become more restless, vocal, or affectionate.

Loss of appetite

Your cat may stop eating 24 hours before giving birth. She may also vomit or have diarrhea due to hormonal changes.

RELATED: What Foods Are Deadly to Cats?

Drop in body temperature

Your cat’s normal body temperature is around 101°F (38°C). It may drop below 100°F (37.8°C) 12 to 24 hours before giving birth.

Use a rectal thermometer to get your cat’s temperature twice a day during the last week of pregnancy.

Vaginal discharge

Your cat may have clear or bloody discharge from her vulva before or during labor. This is normal and usually harmless, unless it is excessive, foul-smelling, or greenish in color.

Increased grooming and licking of genitals

You may notice your pregnant cat excessively grooming and licking her genitals. This is because she is trying to stimulate contractions and prepare for the birth of her kittens. She may also lick her genitals to clean off any fluid or discharge that may come out before or during labor.

To help your cat with her grooming and licking, you can do the following:

• Provide her with fresh water and a clean litter box. This will help her stay hydrated and prevent any infections or irritations in her genitals.

• Avoid touching or interfering with her genitals unless necessary. This will prevent any pain or discomfort for your cat or damage to her kittens.

• Monitor her progress and watch out for any signs of trouble or complications. If you see any blood, pus, or tissue coming out of her genitals, or if she seems to be in pain or distress, you should contact your veterinarian immediately.

Water breaking

Your cat’s water may break before or during labor. This is when the amniotic sac that surrounds each kitten ruptures and releases fluid. You may see a gush of fluid from your cat’s vulva or notice wet spots on her bedding.

Contractions

Your cat may have contractions before or during labor. These are involuntary muscle spasms that help push the kittens out of the uterus. You might observe your cat’s belly tightening and then relaxing repeatedly. You may also hear her panting, groaning, or meowing.

Help Your Cat During Labor and Delivery

During your cat’s labor and delivery, you should do the following:

Stay calm and supportive

Your cat may sense your emotions and react accordingly. If you are nervous or anxious, she may become nervous or anxious, too. Try to be calm and supportive of your cat. Talk to her softly and gently, praise her for being brave and strong, and pet her if she allows you.

Monitor her progress

Keep an eye on your cat’s progress and watch out for any signs of trouble or complications. Some red flags and warning signs that indicate that your cat needs veterinary attention include:

• Labor lasting longer than eight hours without any kittens being born.
• More than two hours between the birth of each kitten.
• A kitten stuck in the birth canal or a breech birth (tail or legs first)
• A kitten that is stillborn, deformed, or not breathing.
• A placenta that is not delivered or is retained in the uterus
• Excessive bleeding, discharge, or pain from the mother cat
• Fever, lethargy, weakness, or loss of appetite in the mother cat

Assist her if necessary

Most cats can deliver their kittens without any human intervention. However, sometimes they may need some assistance from you. Some situations where you may need to assist your cat include:

• If a kitten is not breathing, you can gently rub it with a clean towel or paper towel to stimulate its breathing. You can also clear its mouth and nose of any fluid or debris with a bulb syringe or a cotton swab. Additionally, you can perform mouth-to-nose resuscitation by gently blowing air into its nose while holding its mouth closed.
• If the umbilical cord is either excessively long or too short, you can cut it with sterile scissors and tie it with thread, floss, or suture. You should cut the cord about an inch (2.5 cm) from the kitten’s belly and tie it twice, leaving a small loop between the ties. You should also disinfect the cord stump with alcohol or iodine.

• If the mother cat does not clean or nurse her kittens, you can help her by licking them with a damp cloth or cotton ball to remove any blood or fluid. You can also encourage her to nurse them by gently placing them near her nipples and rubbing them on her belly. In addition, you can supplement them with kitten formula and a bottle if they are not getting enough milk from their mother.

Pregnant Cat Behavior & Care After Birth

Here are some of the behavior changes that you may observe in your cat after giving birth:

Maternal Instincts

Your cat may develop strong maternal instincts after giving birth. She may become very protective of her kittens and spend most of her time with them. She may also groom them, nurse them, teach them, and play with them. This is because she wants to bond with them and ensure their survival.

To support your cat’s maternal instincts, you can do the following:

• Respect your cat’s privacy and boundaries. Don’t disturb her or her kittens unless necessary. Let her decide when and how to interact with you or other pets or people. Don’t touch or move her kittens without her permission or supervision.
• Provide your cat with a comfortable, warm, and quiet place to raise her kittens. You can use her nest for this and just make adjustments as needed.

• Monitor your cat’s health and the development of her kittens regularly. You can check their weight, temperature, appetite, behavior, and appearance for any signs of trouble or complications. You can also consult your veterinarian for advice and care.

Increased Appetite

Your cat may eat more and have a bigger appetite after giving birth because she needs more calories, protein, and nutrients to recover from the birth and produce enough milk for her kittens.

To manage your cat’s appetite and nutrition after birth:

• You can feed her two to four times the normal amount, depending on the number of kittens she has. You should not change the size of her portions, but you should increase the number of times you feed her.

• Make sure she drinks plenty of water. You can add some water to her food (wet or dry) to increase her fluid intake. This may also make the food softer and easier for the kittens to eat when they start to try solid food.

• Your cat will stop making milk about six to eight weeks after giving birth. By this time, you can gradually reduce her food intake until she goes back to her normal amount. You should also slowly switch her back to adult food over the course of seven to ten days.

• Regularly monitor your cat’s body condition and weight. Ideally, she should return to her pre-pregnancy weight by the time the kittens are weaned. If she is overweight or underweight, you may need to adjust the type or amount of food accordingly.

Final Thoughts

Being a responsible cat owner means being well-informed about your cat’s pregnancy and knowing how to care for her during this critical time. We’ve explored the age at which a cat can get pregnant, the stages of cat gestation, and the signs of labor and delivery. We’ve also discussed how to assist your cat during labor and provided insights into post-birth behaviors and care.

Remember, every cat is unique, and their experiences during pregnancy may vary. For any concerns or questions you may have about your pregnant cat’s health or behavior, don’t hesitate to consult with your veterinarian. By providing your expecting feline with the right care and support, you can ensure a safe and comfortable journey into motherhood for both your cat and her adorable kittens. Congratulations on this exciting chapter of your cat’s life!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my pregnant cat suddenly more affectionate?

During pregnancy, some cats become more affectionate due to hormonal changes. They may look for security and comfort from their owners.

Is it normal for my pregnant cat to eat more?

Yes, it’s normal for a pregnant cat to have an increased appetite. She needs extra nutrients to support her growing kittens.

Should I change my pregnant cat’s diet?

Yes, transition her to a high-quality kitten food with increased protein and calories. Consult your vet for specific recommendations.

Why is my pregnant cat nesting?

Nesting behavior is instinctual. She’s preparing a safe and comfortable space for giving birth and caring for her kittens.

Can I still play with my pregnant cat?

Yes, but be gentle. Avoid strenuous play to prevent stress or injury to the pregnant cat.

How long is a cat’s pregnancy?

Cat pregnancies typically last around 63–65 days, but this can vary slightly.

Why is my cat grooming excessively during pregnancy?

Excessive grooming is normal during pregnancy. It’s a way for her to keep clean and soothe herself.

Should I provide a separate space for my pregnant cat to give birth?

Yes, prepare a quiet, secluded area with bedding for her to give birth. Isolate her from other pets to reduce stress.

Is it okay for my pregnant cat to go outside?

It’s safer to keep her indoors during pregnancy to protect her and her unborn kittens from potential dangers.

What signs indicate that my pregnant cat is about to give birth?

Signs include restlessness, nesting behavior, loss of appetite, and visible contractions. Contact your vet if you’re unsure or if complications arise.