Welcoming a new litter of kittens is an exciting time for any cat owner. Understanding the stages of cat pregnancy, which typically lasts around nine weeks, can help you provide the best care for your expectant feline. This guide breaks down the changes you can expect to see in your cat, week by week.
The First Two Weeks
During the initial two weeks of pregnancy, you might not observe any significant changes in your cat’s behavior or physical appearance. This is because the fertilized eggs are just beginning to implant in the uterine wall, a process that usually completes towards the end of the second week. Your cat may still be experiencing her heat cycles during this period. If she mates again, it’s possible for her to conceive kittens from different fathers within the same litter.
Week Three: Hormonal Changes Begin
By the third week, the fertilized eggs have successfully implanted, marking the true beginning of fetal development. This triggers a surge of hormones in your cat’s body, initiating subtle but noticeable changes. Her heat cycles will likely cease, and you may observe that her nipples have become darker and slightly enlarged – a phenomenon known as “pinking.”
Week Four: Morning Sickness and Vet Confirmation
Similar to humans, pregnant cats can experience “morning sickness,” typically around the fourth week. This might manifest as vomiting and a temporary loss of appetite. While occasional bouts are normal, if your cat is vomiting frequently or refusing to eat altogether, it’s crucial to consult your veterinarian for advice. During this week, your cat will start gaining weight, and a veterinarian can confirm the pregnancy through an ultrasound. It’s important to avoid picking up your cat during this stage to prevent accidental harm to her or the developing kittens. Your vet can guide you on the proper handling techniques for a pregnant cat.
Week Five: Kitten Growth and Physical Changes
By week five, the kittens are growing steadily. You’ll notice your cat continuing to gain weight. A veterinarian may be able to estimate the number of kittens she is expecting by gently palpating her abdomen. However, it’s vital not to attempt this yourself, as it requires professional expertise to perform safely.
Week Six: Noticeable Development
At this stage, your cat’s abdomen will appear noticeably rounder. You might even be able to observe the kittens moving inside. Your cat’s appetite will likely increase significantly as she begins to build up the necessary nutrients to support her growing litter and prepare for nursing. Ensure she is fed a balanced diet specifically formulated for pregnant cats and allow her to eat as much as she desires.
Week Seven: Nesting Behavior
As week seven approaches, your cat may start exhibiting nesting behaviors. She will actively seek out a quiet, safe, and comfortable location to give birth. Providing her with a warm, cozy space, perhaps with soft blankets, can encourage her to choose this area for delivery. You might also notice her purring more frequently and seeking increased attention and affection from you. This is a normal sign of her emotional state during pregnancy; offering comfort and reassurance is beneficial.
Week Eight: Nearing the Due Date
With only a week or so left, your cat’s nipples will become quite swollen, indicating she is very close to giving birth. You may also observe an increase in her grooming habits, potentially leading to some fur loss on her abdomen. This is a natural process and the fur will regrow after she has finished nursing her kittens.
Week Nine: Signs of Impending Labor
Around week nine, you might notice a small amount of reddish discharge from your cat’s vulva. This is a normal sign that labor is imminent. Your cat might seem more anxious, pace more frequently, or seek your company for reassurance. These are all indicators that she is preparing to go into labor. If she retreats to her chosen nesting spot, it’s a strong possibility that the kittens will arrive soon.
Week Ten: Potential for Extended Pregnancy
While the typical gestation period for cats is around nine weeks, it’s not uncommon for birth to extend into the tenth week. At this point, it becomes a waiting game. If you have any concerns or if there are still no signs of kittens by the end of week ten, it is advisable to contact your veterinarian.
Providing attentive care and monitoring your cat throughout her pregnancy will help ensure a healthy and safe delivery for both mother and kittens.
