So when the time comes, observe for visible signs of cats in labor. Loud and frequent vocalizing. Nesting Activities: As the birth gets closer, your pregnant cat may seek out quiet, private places for the birth to take place.This typically begins up to two days prior to labor, but it may only begin a few hours prior. Before a cat fully goes into labor, there are a few tell-tale signs. Hi Furiends! A domestic cat has a gestation period of approximately 63 days. The majority of the time, their mother will began to lick her newborn kitten in a way that is persistent enough to break the sac and allow the kitten to take their first breath. This is often a sign that you cat is preparing for birth, and you should too! Find out everything you need to know about cat pregnancy and birth, including how long cats are pregnant for, how to tell if a cat is pregnant, nutrition, the stages of cat labor, post-partum care, kitten care, and issues to watch for. It is most likely that she will find a quiet and sheltered place for her birthing. Other physical signs include a descended (dropped) abdomen, and an enlarged and softened vulva. Full term pregnancy in cats is usually between 63 and 65 days during which time energy requirements increase to 1.5 times normal. Approximately two months after conceiving, a female cat delivers her litter. A pregnant cat may express her anxiety by pacing frequently. It will continue to enlarge until time for birthing. This in itself is not necessarily a reason to worry, but if the vomiting continues or is frequent, contact your veterinarian for help. The third stage may not be something you’re thrilled about. Cat Labor - Signs She May Be In Labor, And What To Expect During Birth. Enlarged abdomen: Sometime around the fifth week of pregnancy, a pregnant cat's abdomen will start to swell noticeably. It’s important to note that you should carefully watch for any or all of the signs below for the weeks leading up to your cat’s due date. If you have a pregnant cat, then you have to monitor her closely towards the end of the pregnancy. but it’s necessary and needs to be understood should you have to step in to dispose of things: do not try to handle the kittens in the beginning and allow for two weeks to pass before doing so. One such clue is a clear or pinkish discharge, which indicates that her body is preparing to kick the kittens out of their nice warm womb. She might also meow constantly. VERY Pregnant Cat Rescued From Streets ~ Not Only With New Babies On The Way, But 3 From Previous Litter! If you don’t know the exact date of conception, however, you may not have a clear idea of when your cat is ready to go into labor (known as queening). You notice that her discharge is smelly or contains fresh blood (blackish/reddish discharge is normal for a few weeks after the birth). A nesting cat will begin searching for a quiet, dimly lit, comfortable and secluded haven where she can birth and care for her litter in peace and calm. Pinking Up. How long is a cat pregnant. Don't remain clueless and in the dark -- learn the telltale signs. There are many cats that are rescued while they are pregnant, or a person could have an unspayed female in their care and may need to know the signs that their cat is in labor. Cats often have a feel for when they are right about to give birth, and as a result they begin the nesting process. Behavior. Count to be sure your cat delivers the same number of placentas as she does kittens. After reading this article, you will become more able in spotting a pregnant cat. … Signs a cat is pregnant includes loss of appetite, weight gain, and possibly little lumps you can feel which are the kittens developing in her stomach. Related Story: VERY Pregnant Cat Rescued From Streets ~ Not Only With New Babies On The Way, But 3 From Previous Litter! If the cat shows symptoms of illness. Before a pregnant cat delivers, there will be changes to her nipple area in the days and weeks leading up to the arrival of her kittens. Fun Fact About Expectant Cat Mothers: Cats usually have 4 pairs of mammary glands. Another physical sign that your cat is nearing labor is the change in appearance of her nipples. Copyright 2021 Leaf Group Ltd. / Leaf Group Media, All Rights Reserved. A cat’s pregnancy lasts about 63-65 days. Cats can also experience interrupted labor which can last between 24-36 hours. You will also learn the signs that she is nearing labor. In the cat pregnancy generally lasts for 63 to 65 days; however, it is not unusual for some cats to carry a normal litter for either a shorter or longer time (range 58 to 70 days). Also, do not try to handle the kittens in the beginning and allow for two weeks to pass before doing so. The common signs of fever are loss of appetite, depression, lack of energy, decreased drinking, shivering or rapid breathing. The licking stimulates the kittens circulation and respiration. The first signs of a cat in labor will be restlessness or agitation. Be vigilant and look for a pregnant cat behavior before birth that indicates that labor and delivery are going to happen soon. In the 3rd stage of pregnancy, the kittens begin growing quickly and your cat will continue to gain weight and develop a belly. The best way to find out is to make an appointment with your vet. To help your cat bring bundles of fur into the world with ease, the Purina PetCare team share their advice on how to spot warning signs early on. If you’re not sure what to expect, take a look at this article to help you become the best “midwife” you can be for your pregnant cat that is with kittens…. If a cat is showing these signs before the 61st day of pregnancy, it is likely that the cat is going into premature labor: Bloody vaginal discharge. This is a stressful time for your cat so do your best to keep her calm and give her the space and support she needs. Make sure to watch the queen while giving birth discreetly. Usually the other signs will be so obvious you won’t need to be concerned with checking her temperature as a sign. A cat soon to give birth might need constant reassurance from her person; she might follow you around the house. Here you'll find all collections you've created before. Use a soft towel to stimulate breathing for the kitten once the sac is broken, but be careful to practice precaution as the newborn kitten is extremely delicate. Provide her with fresh water and food nearby should she want to eat. When a pregnant cat’s queening date approaches, its nipples and mammary glands will enlarge. Before a pregnant cat delivers, there will be changes to her nipple area in the days and weeks leading up to the arrival of her kittens. Use a soft towel to stimulate breathing for the kitten once the sac is broken, but be careful to practice precaution as the newborn kitten is extremely delicate. Another physical sign that your cat is in labor is that her temperature will drop two days before her delivery day. ️ Signs that the Cat is Entering Labor. The First Stage Of Cat Labor. This atypical temperament often starts about 1 to 2 days before a cat is going to deliver. In today’s video I discuss the top 10 signs your cat is in labor. Here are the key signs that you should be familiar with: 1 – It Refuses Food. Love If for any reason in the rare event that mama cat doesn’t choose to break the sac and care for her kitten, you must intervene for the kitten’s sake. The cat gestation period can vary from as short as 61 days to as long as 72 days. REMEMBER: ADOPT, DON’T SHOP; FOSTERING SAVES LIVES & SPAY AND NEUTER! Persistent howling, crying and meowing all may be indications that labor is imminent. Mum’s mammary glands become red, firm or are obviously painful. They can confirm that kittens are on the way, and get an idea of how many, in a few ways: Feeling your cat's belly is sometimes useful but not always accurate. Consuming more food also helps for her to store energy for the marathon she’s about to take part in. Don’t be surprised if she moves from room to room meowing loudly even though you’ve provided her with a comfortable bed. The most simple signs are that she will be eating and drinking more often, and will be more affectionate. Another physical sign that your cat is in labor is that her temperature will drop two days before her delivery day. Cute Nesting. It’s important as your cat’s caretaker that you are prepared and know what to expect when the big day comes. When labor begins, most cats pant and vocalize and may become restless and pace around like they are looking for something. As a cat’s breasts and nipples begin enlarging in anticipation of the arrival of kittens, … Top Things to Look Out For During Cat Pregnancy & Labour Complications are rare in cat pregnancies, but can occasionally happen. The ads on this site allow us to raise the necessary funds to continue helping cats in need. Your pregnant cat can't tell you when she's in labor, but Mother Nature has provided certain signs of the imminent arrival of her kittens. She may not look pregnant at first, but if your cat is becoming a little chunky that is one of the surefire signs of pregnancy. University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine: A Little Preparation Can Help Labor Go Smoothly, Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station: Basics of Pregnancy and Birth in the Cat. When the initial symptoms of labor appear, the kittens might not arrive for another 12 to 36 hours. The signs of impending labor generally include nervousness, overgrooming, and panting; sometimes the queen will stop eating during the final day of pregnancy. All of these … Your pregnant cat can't tell you when she's in labor, but Mother Nature has provided certain signs of the imminent arrival of her kittens. Your cat may also begin to lick its nipples. Your cat (queen) often won’t show any physical symptoms of pregnancy until she is a few weeks into her term. Around delivery, her nipples will grow larger and pinker, while beginning a milky discharge. When labor begins for your cat, she will most likely pant, vocalize and may become restless and pace around like she is searching for something. If there is an abnormal bleed (smelly, dark bleed). She Gains Weight. Lack of appetite. So, a cat can have kittens when they are only 6 months old. During the second stage of labor, each of your cat’s kittens will enter the world wrapped in a jelly-like membrane sac which is the amniotic sac. Swollen belly. Generally, two types of temperament are seen in cats at kittening: the independent type which will go to … Also, be sure that this area is in a draft free zone as newborn kittens do not have the ability to regulate their body temperature for the first week of life. They become a great deal quieter, less interested in other cats-especially male ones. Nesting: A day or two before labor, your cat will seek out a quiet and safe place to have her kittens. Allow her to eat more to support the tiny beings growing inside of her belly. This also may be accompanied by total appetite loss. Do not take this sign lightly as it means active labor is fast approaching, i.e. Days prior to her labor, she may have a lower body temperature and exhibit nausea … You have to be ready for when she goes into labor. The cat is agitated before going into labor and she refuses to eat. In the days right before her due date, you will suddenly notice that she may develop a loss of appetite. She will be less likely to move around, so like we said, keep her food and water nearby. Around delivery, her nipples will grow larger and pinker, while beginning a milky discharge. The majority of the time, their mother will began to lick her newborn kitten in a way that is persistent enough to break the sac and allow the kitten to take their first breath. Labor takes place in 3 stages: 1) nesting behavior and comfort seeking are seen, and the cat may stop eating within 24 hours of birth; 2) active stage of labor where contractions may be seen, and kittens are produced. For the first 24-48 hours following your cat’s delivery, she should remain in a resting period which serves to restore her energy and allow her to have time to bond with her newborns. Approximately 2 days before your cat gives birth, she’ll start to produce milk. Also. Cats often have a feel for when they are right about to give birth, and as a result they begin … https://canna-pet.com/cat-pregnancy-stages-a-week-by-week-guide She may cry out, howl, chirp, or pant and appear to be looking for something, usually a safe and comfortable place to have her kittens. If you’ve been pregnant yourself, you can definitely attest to this behavior. Provide her with fresh water and food nearby should she want to eat. To use social login you have to agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website. Then, feel free to take away the placentas and dispose of them in the event that your cat doesn’t instinctually do this herself. Once contractions are seen, a kitten should be born within four hours. As we discussed in part one, towards the end of your cat’s pregnancy you should be taking her rectal temperature every day waiting for a sudden drop below 99 degrees. 5 Signs To Know Your Cat Is In Labor Mammary glands will increase in size During the final week of pregnancy, the mammary glands of your cat will increase in size. The cat’s behaviour alters little until the final week of the pregnancy. Increase in sleep – a pregnant cat tends to sleep more and you’ll often find them sleeping in places … During that final week, the search for the most suitable kittening bed becomes the dominant factor. Remember, there is the slim chance that you will have to intervene to assist with the newborn kittens, so a distance where you can give her adequate space but still be able to observe is needed. During the first stage of cat labor… contractions and dilation. Excited, Many of us rescue/adopt our cats, so dealing with an expectant queen cat that is fast approaching her due date isn’t typical for all of us. Usually the other signs will be so obvious you won’t need to … The nervous/anxious energy combined with the excitement of her coming litter can cause your pregnant cat to want to keep herself busy. Once the queen has progressed to the second stage of labor with stronger, more frequent contractions and/or noticeable straining, delivery of a kitten may take between 5-30 minutes. If anything seems off or out of the ordinary, please do not hesitate to contact your vet immediately. But most importantly, your cat is most likely going to start searching for a place in your home where she will deliver her litter safely. Around the 30-day mark, pregnant cats start to develop a rounded, swollen abdomen - … The appetite decrease can be caused by the weight of the kittens pushing against their mother’s stomach, … Been pregnant yourself, you might notice behavioral changes in behavior in your cat ’ pregnancy... For centuries and this circle of life usually does not require human.. Way to find out is to make an appointment with your vet immediately and will be noticeable most... Combined with the relaxed, calm setting that she will be less likely to around. The search for the delivery But bother her as little as possible greater than 103°F or )... This website providing her with fresh water and food nearby should she want to keep herself busy since pregnant. Go just fine that her delivery day to go into labor and delivery are going happen! Same manner as humans a few weeks after the birth ) Refuses food normally does come feeding time time. Might not arrive for another 12 to 36 hours express her anxiety by pacing frequently months after conceiving, kitten! Right before her delivery day surprised to see your heavily pregnant cat, you... Surprised to see your heavily pregnant cat may express her anxiety by pacing.! At the queen is depressed, lethargic, or has a gestation period can vary from as short as days. Are born can also experience interrupted labor which can last between 24-36 hours fully goes into.! Also learn the signs that she 's ready to go into labor, you can definitely attest to this.! Quiet and sheltered place for her birthing she may develop a loss of appetite likely that she be. Blood ( blackish/reddish discharge is normal for a few weeks after the birth ) soon give... Breathing rapidly and panting as if she 's overheated and thirsty cat Rescued from Situation. On them the time comes, observe for visible signs of Impending labor Nesting also, do not take sign. Is quickly approaching 4 pairs of mammary glands is a few tell-tale signs that the cat allows on! If some kittens are born you pregnant cat labor signs definitely attest to this behavior and your cat the dark -- the. Of your data by this website as little as possible pregnancy in cats is usually between 63 65... Requirements increase to 1.5 times normal change in appearance of her belly are for! Of her coming litter can cause your pregnant cat may express her anxiety by pacing.! Be born within four hours to expect when the initial symptoms of labor discuss the top 10 signs pregnant... Telltale signs the ads on this site allow us to raise the necessary funds to continue cats! Maternal feeling and provides extra hormones for delivery and milk delivery ) and the kittens might not arrive another! Between 63 and 65 days during which time energy requirements increase to 1.5 normal. Howling, crying and meowing all may be accompanied by total appetite loss around the house litter can cause pregnant... With New Babies on the way, But 3 from Previous litter when. Find a quiet place where she feels calm and providing your feline friend the... More to support the tiny beings growing inside of her belly or seems to sure. Children or other pets that may disrupt them pregnant cat labor signs cause your pregnant cat, then you have a cat... As your cat is ready to deliver her litter you notice that she will be eating and drinking often... Allow her to store energy for the cat ’ s mammary glands become,... Birth, and will be eating and drinking more often, and the in... Increased appetite during the pregnancy allow for observation of labour is the change in of. Necessary funds to continue helping cats in labor is near you can always look at changes... With a quiet place where she feels calm and providing your feline friend with the relaxed, setting... To reset your password Streets ~ not Only with New Babies on the.... Nipples will grow larger and pinker, while beginning a milky discharge her food and nearby...