Pregnant Cat Care
Cats carry their young for 58 – 67 days. Pregnancy can be diagnosed by the vet using abdominal palpation from around three to four weeks after mating, or by using ultrasound. Pinking up - enlargement and reddening of the teats - may be seen from around three to four weeks of pregnancy.
The queen will need to eat more than usual, especially in the last three to four weeks when she will need approximately 25% more food. Feed her kitten food in regular meals as it is high in energy. Continue this feeding regime while your cat is suckling as she will use double her usual energy requirements.
Water is also vital for your cat's health, so make sure that pregnant, birthing and lactating queens have constant access to water, but during and after birth this must be out of reach of kittens to prevent them drowning.
Queens may search for a suitable place to give birth. Ideally, pregnant queens should be introduced to a quiet, clean and warm kittening area away from the family and other pets at least two weeks before the expected birth date. Provide warm blankets that can be washed and replaced as necessary.
We recommend talking to us before your cat breeds, to make sure that your cat is fit to breed and properly vaccinated.
If your cat is already pregnant, ask us for advice on caring for your cat, including feeding, worming and flea treatments. You must use treatments that are safe to use during pregnancy.