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How to Tell If Your Cat Is Pregnant and Nutritional Needs During Pregnancy


The average gestation period for cats is about 65 days, with 71 days being the longest normal period. If your cat exceeds this timeframe without giving birth, a visit to the vet is necessary, as the kittens might be too large for a safe delivery.
During this period, it’s crucial to provide your pregnant cat with proper care and attention. Pregnant cats require increased protein and calorie intake. If you’re feeding high – quality, balanced food, no changes are needed in the first 2 – 3 weeks of pregnancy. However, by the later stages, your cat should consume twice her pre – pregnancy amount. Due to fetal growth pressing on organs, she might not manage this in two meals, so increase feeding frequency or leave food out for free – choice feeding.
As pregnancy progresses, your cat’s appetite will increase significantly. Prepare nutrient – rich foods daily to meet her energy needs.

Determining Pregnancy in Cats

  • Early Signs (0 – 3 weeks): Behavioral changes like increased appetite, lethargy, or seeking affection may appear around 10 days post – mating. Some cats experience “morning sickness.” By days 16 – 20, the nipples become more prominent and pink.
  • Mid – Pregnancy (3 – 5 weeks): The abdomen starts to swell slightly by week 4, and weight gain of 1 – 1.5 kg is common by week 5. Appetite increases significantly, and high – protein pregnancy – specific cat food is recommended.
  • Late Pregnancy (5 – 9 weeks): After week 6, the abdomen hangs pear – shaped, and mammary glands develop. Nesting behavior begins 2 weeks before birth, and body temperature drops about 1℃ 24 hours before labor.

Professional Diagnostic Methods

  • Ultrasound: Can confirm pregnancy as early as day 21, with fetal heartbeats detectable by day 35. Accuracy exceeds 95%.
  • X – rays: Used after 45 days to determine the number of fetuses, as skeletal calcification becomes visible, but they shouldn’t be performed frequently.
  • Hormone Testing: Detects Relaxin levels, providing accurate results 25 days post – mating for early diagnosis.

Nutritional Needs During Pregnancy

  • Protein and Calories: Increased intake is essential, especially in the later stages. High – protein cat food (protein content ≥35%) is recommended.
  • Vitamins and Minerals: Ensure adequate intake of vitamins, especially B vitamins, to support the cat’s immune system and fetal development.
  • Essential Fatty Acids: Foods rich in omega – 3 and omega – 6 fatty acids support fetal brain and eye development.

Caring for Your Pregnant Cat

  • Regular Vet Checkups: Schedule regular veterinary visits to monitor the health of your pregnant cat and ensure a smooth pregnancy.
  • Comfortable Environment: Provide a quiet, safe, and comfortable space for your cat to rest and eventually give birth.
  • Hygiene: Maintain a clean living environment to reduce the risk of infection during pregnancy and after birth.
By understanding these signs and providing proper care, you can ensure a healthy pregnancy and delivery for your cat. If you suspect your cat is pregnant, consult a veterinarian for confirmation and guidance on how to best support her during this time.

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