A Comprehensive Guide to Caring for a Pregnant Cat

Pregnant cats go through a series of significant physical and behavioral changes. Pregnancy usually lasts from 60 to 67 days, during which time the cat's nipples swell and turn pink, its appetite increases, it may vomit, its abdomen gradually expands, and it seeks quiet places to nest as it approaches labor.

How To Know If Cat Is In Labor?

Obvious characteristics of cats in labor
Characteristics of an approaching labor period in cats include a series of physiological and behavioral changes that indicate that the cat is about to enter the stage of labor. The following are some of the obvious characteristics.

1.The abdomen is obviously enlarged and drooping, the nipples become clearly visible and sometimes milk will flow out . 
2.Behavioral changes such as restlessness, loss of appetite, searching for hidden places to nest, rapid breathing, drop in body temperature (about 1°C), bouts of pain due to uterine contractions, drinking a lot of water, and frequent entries and exits in the birthing room . 
3.The increase in secretions and the possible discharge of viscous fluid from the vulva of the mother cat is a normal physiologic process of preparing the uterus to propel the pups through the birth canal. 

What to Do When Your Cat Shows Frequent Nesting Behavior?

When a cat shows frequent nesting behavior, this is usually a sign that pregnancy is imminent. In this case, you can take the following measures to provide a suitable environment and care for your cat.

Create a safe and comfortable nest

Provide a quiet, warm and private space where your cat can nest in peace. You can use cardboard boxes or special cat beds with soft cushions or old clothes to simulate a nest in a natural environment.

Reduce disturbance

Minimize disturbance to your cat while it is nesting by avoiding moving the nest frequently or disturbing it. This will help to reduce your cat's stress and allow her to focus on preparing for her new arrival.

Prepare postnatal care supplies

Prepare the necessary postnatal care supplies in advance, such as clean towels, scissors (for breaking the umbilical cord) and sterilized containers (for placing the placenta).

With the above measures, you can help your cat get through the pregnancy period and provide a warm starting point for the upcoming kittens. Remember to give your cat extra love and support throughout the process to reduce its stress and anxiety.

How Should Cats Undergo Prenatal Examinations Before Giving Birth?

Prenatal examination is vital to ensure the health of the mother cat and the fetus. Through prenatal checkups, veterinarians can assess the overall health of the mother cat, monitor the development of the fetus, as well as identify and deal with possible complications in a timely manner.

Steps and items of prenatal examination

Confirmation of pregnancy: 21 to 28 days after the cat is mated, you can confirm whether it is truly pregnant through the examination conducted by the veterinarian. 
Estimation of the number of fetuses: around the 46th day of pregnancy, the number of fetuses can be determined by X-ray photography. 
Body condition examination: This includes temperature measurement, weight measurement and physical appearance examination to monitor the health condition and weight gain of the mother cat. 
Routine blood test: Used to detect the red blood cell count, white blood cell count and hemoglobin level of the mother cat, as well as the blood sugar level and whether there is any infection. 
Ultrasound examination: to observe the number, size and development of the fetus, as well as whether there are any abnormalities in the uterus. 
Urine examination: to understand the mother cat's kidney function and the presence of problems such as urinary tract infections. 

Schedule of prenatal examination

First examination: 21 to 28 days after breeding to confirm pregnancy.
Second examination: around the 46th day of pregnancy, X-ray examination to determine the number of fetuses.
Third examination: Depending on the specific conditions of the mother cat, additional examinations may be required later in the pregnancy to monitor the health of the fetuses and predict the date of delivery.

Precautions

• Throughout the pregnancy, overfeeding should be avoided as it may cause the fetus to become too large and lead to difficult labor.
• Ensure that the mother cat has a quiet, comfortable environment so that she can prepare for labor with peace of mind.
• Prepare delivery supplies, such as delivery room, urinal pads, scissors, iodine, etc., so that they can be used during labor.
• By following the prenatal checkup steps and schedule outlined above, you can help ensure that your cat receives the best possible care and support during labor. If you have any questions or concerns, you should consult your veterinarian promptly.

How Should Pregnant Cats Adjust Their Diet and Nutritional Intake?

Cats during pregnancy need extra nutrition to support their own growth and development as well as that of the fetus. Here are some suggestions for adjusting the diet and nutritional intake of pregnant cats.

Increase calorie and protein intake

Pregnant cats have an increased metabolism and therefore need more calories and protein. This need can be met by increasing the proportion of meat, such as beef and chicken breast. 

Supplementation of specific nutrients

Pregnant cats need extra calcium, vitamins, folic acid and taurine. These nutrients can be supplemented by providing goat's milk powder, food containing these nutrients or cat food specifically designed for pregnant cats. 

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Avoiding unsuitable foods

Pregnant cats should not be fed raw meat, fish with spines, food that is too cold, cat food with too many additives, or milk for cats with lactose intolerance. 

Smaller meals

As the pregnancy cycle progresses, the cat's food intake will gradually increase. Regular weight check: Ensure that the cat does not gain excessive weight through overfeeding, which may affect the pregnancy and delivery.

Regular weight check

Ensure that the cat does not gain excessive weight by overfeeding, which may affect the pregnancy and delivery.

Related: Maintaining a Healthy Cat Weight

Provide plenty of fresh water

Maintain a clean supply of drinking water to help maintain water balance and promote nutrient absorption.

Moderate exercise

Encourage your pregnant cat to engage in moderate activity, such as play, to maintain muscle strength and overall health. 

Also Read: How Much Exercise Do Cats Need

Please adjust the diet gradually according to your cat's specific conditions and preferences, and consult your veterinarian for professional advice if necessary.

What Special Environmental Conditions Do Cats Need During Pregnancy?

Cats need special care and appropriate environmental conditions during pregnancy to ensure the health of the mother and fetus. Here are some key environmental conditions:

• Nutritionally balanced diet

Pregnant cats need more nutrients, including protein, vitamins and minerals. High-quality cat food should be provided, and high-energy and high-fat foods should be added later in the pregnancy. 

• Regular Veterinary Checkups

Take your cat to the veterinarian for regular checkups to monitor the progress of the pregnancy and prevent potential health problems. 

• Warm and quiet environment

Provide a comfortable litter that is free from external noise and stress to minimize adverse effects on your cat. 

• Reduce physical activity

During the later stages of pregnancy, cats' bellies will become larger and opportunities for jumping, climbing and running should be reduced to keep them safe. 

• Regular Grooming and Cleaning

Help keep your pregnant cat's coat hygienic and tidy by wiping their eyes, ears and anus regularly to avoid bacterial infections and other diseases. 

• Maintain a quiet and comfortable environment

Avoid bright light, strong sound and other stimuli to maintain your cat's comfort. 

• Pay attention to hygiene

Regularly clean your cat's living area to keep it clean and hygienic to avoid the spread of infectious diseases. 

• Provide adequate exercise and activity

Although strenuous exercise needs to be reduced, moderate activity and exercise should still be encouraged to improve mental and physical vitality. 

• Pay attention to observation

Closely observe the cat's behavior and health, note any signs of abnormality and seek medical attention promptly. 

• Pregnancy and post-natal care

Provide sufficient space and time for the cat to prepare for labor and provide necessary assistance and support during labor. After delivery, keep an eye on the health of the cat and cubs to ensure they are properly cared for and fed. 

By providing these appropriate environmental conditions, you can help your cat safely through the pregnancy period and prepare for the arrival of the newborn kittens.

How Should I Prepare My Pregnant Cat's Labor Room?

Preparing a maternity ward for a pregnant cat is an important step in ensuring a safe delivery. Here are some key preparation steps.

• Choose a suitable location

Choose a quiet, warm, dry and well-ventilated place to place the maternity ward. Avoid direct sunlight and drafts to minimize discomfort and stress. 

• Make or buy a maternity tent

You can purchase a specialized cat birthing tent or use a large corrugated cardboard box. The size of the cardboard box is approximately 50cm long and 40cm wide, and an opening can be left at the top to allow the mother cat to enter and exit, and to prevent the kittens from escaping. 

• Internal arrangement

Lay soft fabrics or old blankets inside the maternity room to provide a comfortable environment for rest and labor. Make sure there is enough space inside the delivery room for the mother cat to stretch and the kittens to move. 

• Cleaning and sterilizing

Before the mother cat enters the delivery room, thoroughly clean and disinfect the delivery room and its surrounding area to maintain a hygienic environment. 

• Provision of necessities

Place litter boxes, food bowls and water bowls in or near the delivery room for use by the mother cat before and after delivery. 

• Monitoring and support

Closely monitor the behavior and health of the mother cat during delivery. Prepare the necessary tools, such as scissors, iodophor, medical gloves, etc., to help when necessary. 

• Postpartum care

After delivery, continue to keep the maternity ward clean and comfortable, and ensure that the mother cat and newborn kittens are properly cared for. 

By following these steps, you can create a safe and comfortable maternity ward for your pregnant cat and help them get through the labor period.

FAQs

Do Cats Need Special Care for Lower Body Temperatures in Late Pregnancy?

The lowering of body temperature in cats in late pregnancy is a normal physiological change before labor. Usually 24 hours before delivery, the cat's body temperature will drop about 1 to 2 degrees. This change is due to the body preparing for labor and adjusting its internal environment. 

During the period when your cat's body temperature drops, you will need to provide extra care and comfort. Ensure that your cat's birthing room is warm and quiet so that she can prepare for labor with peace of mind. You can maintain the proper temperature of the labor room by using hot water bags or heating pads, but be careful not to touch the cat directly as this may cause burns.

Continue to closely observe your cat's behavior and health. If you notice any abnormal symptoms, such as persistent low body temperature, loss of appetite, depression, too little milk, blood or pus discharge from the nipples or pubic area, contact your veterinarian immediately. These symptoms may indicate the presence of complications that require professional medical intervention. 

By providing the right environment and close monitoring, you can help your cat make it through the later stages of pregnancy and prepare for the arrival of her newborn kittens.

How Soon Can a Cat Get Pregnant After Having Kittens?

The recovery period for cats after giving birth takes about 6 months so that the uterus and other reproductive systems can return to a condition suitable for another pregnancy. Premature re-pregnancy may increase the risk of miscarriage and premature labor and may adversely affect the health of the mother cat. 

After a cat has given birth, it is recommended to wait at least 6 months before considering another pregnancy to ensure that the mother cat's body is adequately recovered and replenished with nutrients. If your cat is not intended for breeding, it is recommended that she be spayed or neutered after giving birth to avoid unnecessary future pregnancies and associated health problems. 

How Can I Assist with Labor and Delivery?

Most cats don't need much help during labor. However, you should stay nearby in case any problems arise. If something unusual happens during labor, such as severe pain, a prolonged labor process, or an unusual discharge, contact your veterinarian immediately!

When Can Cats Be Spayed After Giving Birth?

The recovery period for cats after giving birth usually takes at least one month, during which the mother cat's body will gradually recover and the kittens will start weaning and gradually adapt to solid food. According to the latest recommendations, you can consider bringing the mother cat for de-sexing surgery one month after she has given birth. In addition, some experts point out that when the kittens are two months old, the period of nursing and education is over, and the mother cat's breasts can also be sterilized if there is no milk production. 

When deciding on the specific time for the sterilization surgery, you should consider the individual recovery of the mother cat and the health condition of the kittens. If the mother cat has complications or infections after delivery, you need to wait for her to fully recover before de-sexing. Meanwhile, if the kittens still need the care of the mother cat after weaning, you may need to extend the de-sexing period appropriately. 

After the surgery, you need to follow the veterinarian's recommendations for care, including changing the wound dressing regularly, avoiding the cat licking the wound, providing proper nutrition and rest, etc. to promote the mother cat's rapid recovery.

How Should a Cat's Exercise Levels Be Organized During Pregnancy?

During pregnancy, the amount of exercise for cats should be appropriately reduced to avoid overexertion and potential health risks. According to the latest information, pregnant cats can engage in some light exercise activities such as walking, chasing toys, performing yoga and intellectual games, etc. These activities help to maintain the cat's physical health and vitality while avoiding the stress on the fetus caused by strenuous exercise . 

When scheduling exercise, avoid allowing your cat to jump, run quickly or other activities that may cause falls and impacts. Walks are a good option and can be done indoors or in a safe outdoor environment to help keep your cat's exercise level moderate. In addition, simple toys or mind training games can be used to increase your cat's mental stimulation while providing moderate exercise. 

Throughout the pregnancy period, the cat's response and comfort level should be closely observed to ensure that the exercise does not cause discomfort. If the cat is found to show fatigue or discomfort, exercise should be stopped immediately and the veterinarian consulted. Regular veterinary check-ups are also important to monitor the cat's health and the development of the fetus. 

In conclusion, the amount of exercise for cats during pregnancy should be gentle and limited to ensure the safety and health of the mother and fetus.

Conclusion

Caring for a pregnant cat requires extra attention and preparation, but by understanding her needs and providing the proper care, you can help her safely survive the entire pregnancy and welcome healthy kittens. Remember, staying calm and patient is key, and regular communication with your veterinarian can ensure the health and safety of your cat and kittens.