How Do You Know Your Cat Is Ready to Deliver Her Litter of Kittens?

Admin • October 18, 2017
Schnauzer — Woman Hugging Her Miniature Schnauzer in Citrus Heights

Cats can have two or three litters of kittens per year if they have not been spayed. If you have a female cat that has not been spayed and you find out she's expecting, it can be a little alarming and exciting all at once. While you watch your cat's belly swell and her personality take on some unusual changes, you will probably have one big question in mind: When will she have her kittens?

Technically, a cat is pregnant for 63 to 65 days . However, if you are like most pet owners, you won't know the exact time your cat got pregnant; you will only know when you started noticing your cat was pregnant. Therefore, it is helpful to get to know some of the signs that can come along just before your cat delivers her kittens.

Her Appetite Changes

For the most part, your pregnant feline will have a voracious appetite throughout her pregnancy, as she will need the extra food to nourish herself and her growing babies.

However, just before labor starts, her appetite will usually change. Appetite changes are a fairly good indicator of an impending delivery. She will probably not be as interested in food and may stop eating altogether for a short period.

Her "Nesting" Begins

Pregnant felines are notoriously particular about where they deliver their babies. She will want a spot that is fairly hidden and concealed, so you may notice her hanging out some pretty unusual spots in the house, such as inside of cabinets and dresser drawers or the top shelf of the closet. This behavior can begin anywhere from a few hours before labor starts to a few weeks in advance.

If you notice your cat seeking out a place to deliver, you will know that her delivery time is getting closer. Some pet owners help their cats by providing a nice comfy box, which is mostly closed off, for the cat to give birth in. But don't be surprised if you fix her a "nest" and she decides it is not up to her standards.

Her Contractions Begin

Just like a human, when a cat is in her early stages of labor, she will have contractions that are supposed to push the babies down through the birth canal so she can deliver. You can usually see or feel these contractions by watching her abdomen closely or by gently placing your hand on her belly.

Some felines will want extra attention just before giving birth and may even seem a little more loving and needy than usual. If you notice that your cat is having contractions, you should expect to see the kittens soon.

Know the Signs of Trouble During Labor and Delivery

Most cats will have no problem delivering their kittens. However, sometimes, a cat's labor and delivery results in problems that can be dangerous for both her and her babies. A few signs of trouble to be on the lookout for include:

Foul-smelling discharge that is green or yellow in appearance

A kitten lodged halfway out for an extended period of time

Prolonged contractions of several hours that seem to not result in delivery

The mother cat is lethargic or her breathing is shallow

If you spot any of these symptoms during labor or delivery, it is important to get your cat to the veterinarian for attention. Not doing so can put your cat's life in danger.

With a little loving attention, your pregnant feline will likely deliver her new babies with no trouble at all. If you would like to know more about caring for your pregnant feline, contact us at Sylvan Corners Pet Hospital for help.

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