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Is your cat pregnant? She'll be going through a lot of changes, and in a shorter amount of time than a person's nine month gestation period.
Refer to this timeline if your cat is pregnant and expecting kittens. You can anticipate the stages of your cat’s pregnancy and stay prepared as you get ready to welcome kittens into the world.
|
Days After Insemination |
Pregnancy Symptoms or Tests Performed |
Vet Visit Recommended |
|
0—14 |
During the first two weeks of gestation, there are no reliable means to determine pregnancy |
First prenatal checkup is recommended at 2 weeks; interim checkups scheduled in consultation with vet |
|
24 |
Ultrasound may be used by your veterinarian to visualize embryos Fetal heartbeat can be detected Palpation by vet can determine presence of embryos |
|
|
30 |
Relaxin assay kits can determine pregnancy at home Some cats will develop morning sickness between 21 and 42 days Nipples may be swollen and pink |
|
|
35 |
Belly will be visibly swollen Nipples will swell and turn pink by now if they haven’t already Cat maybe become more affectionate with humans, less tolerant of other pets |
|
|
42—49 |
Because of distention of uterus, cat may show signs of discomfort and restlessness Pressure on bladder may cause soiling accidents |
|
|
56 |
Restlessness will increase and cat may wander the home or property looking for birthing spot Cat may howl or meow loudly due to discomfort |
Final checkup before labor |
|
60—70 |
Labor begins, comprising 3 stages Stage 1: cat will find nesting spot to birth in, may howl, lick vulva, refuse to eat Stage 2: contractions begin and kittens are pushed through birth canal Stage 3: placenta is expelled |
More on Caring for Your Cat
Introducing Cats to New Cats or Dogs
5 Common Cat Medications
6 Common Kitten Health Problems
This information is for informational purposes only and is not meant as a substitute for the professional advice of, or diagnosis or treatment by, your veterinarian with respect to your pet. It has, however, been verified by a licensed veterinarian for accuracy.