By 3-4 weeks, the vet should be able to tell just with their hands if the cat is pregnant. They can also do an ultrasound, though that will cost more money. [2] X Research source Tell your vet you think your cat’s pregnant when you make the appointment so they can be ready. Signs your cat might be pregnant include her becoming more vocal and affectionate, pulling fur off around her belly, and having morning sickness. You may also notice her gaining weight.
Certain medications may not be safe for pregnant cats.
Don’t start giving excess food early in the pregnancy, as that will make the cat gain weight. In the first few weeks of pregnancy, the kittens will get all the nutrients they need from the mother’s regular diet.
To switch her over slowly, replace a little of her food the first day with the new food. Each day, add a bit more of the new food and a bit less of the old food until you’ve gotten her completely switched over. You can do this over 2 weeks or so.
Cats often like enclosed spaces, such as a laundry basket or box, for giving birth. Pick one with low sides so the mother can get in and out easily. Make sure to choose blankets and towels you don’t mind getting dirty and that you can wash easily.
If your cat has the kittens outdoors, it may be difficult to find them and care for them, which can be dangerous if the weather is too hot or cold. Plus, predators could cause trouble for the mother and her kittens even in good weather.
As it gets closer to birthing time, she may paw at the bedding in the nesting area. She may also come over to you for extra petting and love. In the 24 hours before birth, she may stop eating. [9] X Research source
The cat may take anywhere from 5 to 30 minutes to deliver each kitten, so the process can take a while.
If the mother doesn’t do this, wipe the membrane off with a soft towel, making sure to get the nose and mouth clear. Rub the kitten with a circular motion to help it start breathing. If the mother doesn’t do this, you need to talk to your vet once you’re done. If the mother doesn’t cut the cord, tie off the cord about 1 inch (2. 5 cm) from the kitten’s body with clean thread. Tie it off again 1 to 2 inches (2. 5 to 5. 1 cm) down, then use your hands to break the cord apart between where you tied it. Wash your hands before starting this process. Most litters will be between 4 and 6 kittens, though a cat can have a litter as big as 9.
Once they’re birthed, pull the placentas out of the mother’s reach if you can. Count them to make sure you have the same number as you do kittens. If you leave the placentas in range, the mother will eat them to hide the evidence. If you don’t have enough placentas, you’ll need to talk to the veterinarian, as placentas that aren’t passed can cause infections. [13] X Research source
However, you should call your vet just to make sure nothing’s wrong! She shouldn’t be straining during this time.
If the cat is straining hard for 20 minutes and you don’t see a head, call your vet. If you see a head and it still hasn’t been pushed out after 10 minutes, call the vet.
Fresh blood is bright red.
Also, change out the blankets and towels in the nesting area after the mother is done giving birth. They will likely be soiled.
Talk to your vet if the cat is ignoring the kittens!
Some small kittens may not be able to feed on their own. If they can’t, talk to your vet about how to hand feed them.
A little green discharge immediately after the placentas are expelled is okay.
As your cat gets closer to weaning, she may even need twice the amount of food she was getting pre-pregnancy. [22] X Research source
However, be sure to provide your mother with plenty of fresh water while she’s feeding her kittens!
