Pregnant Cat: What to Do and What to Expect

Discovering that you have a pregnant cat can be an exciting experience, but also a source of worry for many owners. Feline pregnancy lasts an average of 63–67 days and requires specific care to ensure the health of the mother-to-be and her kittens. Understanding the signs of gestation, the nutritional needs involved, and how to prepare for the birth will allow you to approach this period with confidence and peace of mind.

How to recognise the signs of a pregnant cat

The first symptoms of feline pregnancy are not always obvious in the early weeks. However, by observing your cat closely, you will notice gradual changes that confirm the gestation.

Physical changes in the early weeks

Around 2–3 weeks after mating, the nipples of a pregnant cat become pinker and more prominent — a phenomenon breeders call "pinking up". This is often the first visible sign. Around the third week, you may notice a slight increase in weight and an abdomen that begins to swell gradually. Your vet can confirm the pregnancy through abdominal palpation after 20–25 days, or by ultrasound as early as 15–18 days after fertilisation.

Behavioural changes

Many pregnant cats show changes in behaviour. They may become more affectionate and seek greater human contact, or conversely look for quiet, secluded spots. Some show an increased appetite from the very first weeks, while others go through a brief phase of morning nausea around the third or fourth week — similar to that experienced by humans, but generally less pronounced.

Veterinary confirmation

A vet visit is essential to confirm the pregnancy and assess general health. Your vet can:

• Perform an ultrasound to count the foetuses (with varying accuracy) and check their viability
• Assess any complications or risk factors
• Provide personalised guidance on diet and management
• Schedule regular check-ups through to the birth

The cost of a visit including an ultrasound ranges between €50 and €100 at Italian clinics — an important investment in your cat's health.

Feeding your cat during pregnancy

The nutritional needs of a pregnant cat increase significantly, especially in the second half of gestation when the foetuses are growing rapidly. Inadequate nutrition can compromise the mother's health and the development of the kittens.

Calorie requirements and protein

During pregnancy, a cat's energy requirements increase by 25–50% compared to normal. In the final weeks, a 4 kg cat may need up to 300–350 kcal per day, compared to the usual 200–220 kcal. High-quality protein is essential: choose foods containing at least 30–35% animal protein. Many vets recommend switching to a kitten food from the fourth week of pregnancy onwards, as these products are formulated to meet the high nutritional demands of this stage.

Meal frequency

As the uterus expands, the stomach has less space. It is preferable to divide the daily ration into 3–4 smaller meals rather than two large ones. This approach prevents digestive discomfort and ensures a steady supply of nutrients. Always keep fresh water available: hydration is crucial for the production of amniotic fluid and for preparing the body for lactation.

Supplements and foods to avoid

If you use a complete premium-quality commercial food (brands such as Royal Canin, Hill's, and Purina Pro Plan offer specific product lines), supplements are generally not needed. Absolutely avoid:

• Raw liver in large quantities (excess vitamin A)
• Raw fish (risk of parasites and thiamine deficiency)
• Cooked bones, which can splinter
• Calcium supplements without veterinary prescription (these can cause eclampsia)

The FEDIAF and AAFCO guidelines provide precise nutritional standards for feline gestation, which premium pet food manufacturers follow scrupulously.

Preparing the birthing nest

Around 10–14 days before the expected birth date, your pregnant cat will begin searching for a safe place to give birth. Anticipating this need allows you to guide her towards a suitable spot.

Features of the ideal nest

The nest should be a sturdy cardboard box or a purpose-made whelping bed, measuring at least 60 x 50 cm for medium-sized breeds. The sides should be 20–25 cm high to contain the kittens while still allowing the mother to get in and out easily. Line the base with:

1. A layer of newspaper or disposable absorbent pads
2. Old towels or clean sheets that can be washed or thrown away
3. Optionally, a low-temperature heat mat placed under half of the surface

Choosing the right location

Place the nest in a quiet room, away from busy thoroughfares, loud noises, and other animals. The ideal ambient temperature is 22–24°C. Avoid overly bright spots or areas with draughts. Introduce your cat to the nest during the final two weeks, encouraging her to explore it with treats and gentle strokes. That said, some cats still choose alternative spots such as wardrobes or under beds — if possible, respect her choice and simply move the prepared bedding there.

Emergency kit for the birth

Keep the following close to hand:

• Clean, soft towels
• Disposable latex gloves
• Sterilised scissors (for cutting the umbilical cord in an emergency)
• Sterile dental floss (to tie the cord if necessary)
• A digital thermometer
• The phone number of your vet and of a 24-hour emergency clinic

The birth: signs and stages of labour

Recognising the signs of imminent labour allows you to monitor the process and step in if necessary. The vast majority of cats give birth without complications, but it is essential to know when to call the vet.

Warning signs (24–48 hours before)

In the hours leading up to the birth, your pregnant cat will display characteristic behaviours. Her body temperature drops from 38–39°C to around 37–37.5°C in the 12–24 hours beforehand. She becomes restless, repeatedly entering and leaving the nest, vocalising more than usual, and may refuse food. Many cats actively seek out their owner's company, while others isolate themselves entirely. You may notice clear or slightly pink vaginal discharge.

First stage: dilation

This stage lasts 6–12 hours, during which the cervix dilates. The cat breathes rapidly, purrs intensely, repeatedly licks her genital area, and may have visible abdominal contractions. She appears anxious and settles into the nest. Try not to disturb her too much: your quiet presence can be reassuring, but too much interference can slow the process.

Second stage: delivery of the kittens

Contractions become stronger and more frequent. The first kitten should be born within 30–60 minutes of active pushing beginning. Each kitten is born inside an amniotic sac, which the mother instinctively breaks by licking vigorously. She cleans the kitten's face, stimulates breathing, and severs the umbilical cord at approximately 2–3 cm from the abdomen. The interval between kittens ranges from 15 minutes to 2 hours, with an average of 30–45 minutes. A typical litter contains 3–6 kittens, but can range from 1 to 9.

When to call the vet

Contact your vet immediately if:

• More than 60–90 minutes of intense straining pass without a kitten being born
• More than 4 hours pass between kittens
• The cat shows extreme exhaustion, lethargy, or loss of consciousness
• You notice green or black, foul-smelling vaginal discharge before the first kitten is born
• A kitten is partially delivered but has been stuck for more than 10 minutes
• The mother does not break the amniotic sac within 1–2 minutes (you will need to intervene gently)

An emergency caesarean section costs €300–€800 depending on the clinic and the complexity of the procedure, but it can save the lives of both the cat and her kittens.

Post-birth care and neonatal care

After the birth, your attention shifts to the wellbeing of the mother and the growth of the newborns. The first 48 hours are critical for the kittens' survival.

Monitoring the mother

In the 24 hours following the birth, check that the cat expels all of the placentas — there should be as many as there are kittens. Reddish vaginal discharge is normal for 7–10 days, but it should be odourless. If you notice an unpleasant smell, a temperature above 39.5°C, extreme lethargy, or rejection of the kittens, contact your vet: these could be signs of retained placenta or metritis.

Post-birth nutrition requires an even higher calorie intake than during pregnancy. During lactation, energy requirements can increase by 200–300% above normal: a cat nursing 4–5 kittens may consume up to 600–800 kcal per day. Continue with kitten food, offered ad libitum, and always ensure there is plenty of fresh water available.

Monitoring the kittens

Healthy kittens are active, suckle vigorously, and gain 10–15 grams per day. Weigh them daily during the first few days using a kitchen scale (cost: €15–€30). Warning signs include:

• Continuous, high-pitched crying
• Failure to gain weight, or weight loss
• Hypothermia (kittens that feel cold to the touch)
• Breathing difficulties
• No bowel movement within 24–48 hours

Puerperal eclampsia

This metabolic emergency affects 5–10% of nursing cats, typically 1–4 weeks after the birth. It is caused by a sharp drop in blood calcium levels. Symptoms include restlessness, muscle tremors, rigidity, high fever, and convulsions. It requires immediate veterinary treatment with intravenous calcium. Prevention is based on a well-balanced diet without excess calcium during pregnancy.

Prevention: considerations on neutering

Managing a feline pregnancy is a demanding experience that requires time, financial resources (€150–€500 covering specialist food, vet visits, and possible emergencies), and expertise. According to data from Italian feline associations, thousands of kittens end up in shelters every year due to a lack of adoptions.

Benefits of early neutering

If you are not a professional breeder with in-depth knowledge of genetics and selective breeding, neutering is the most responsible choice. A cat can come into heat every 2–3 weeks during the breeding season (spring to autumn) and can become pregnant again as soon as 2–4 weeks after giving birth. This continuous cycle is stressful for the animal and contributes to feline overpopulation.

The optimal time to neuter

International veterinary guidelines recommend neutering between 4 and 6 months of age, before the first heat. This approach dramatically reduces the risk of mammary tumours (a 91% reduction if carried out before the first heat). The cost of neutering ranges from €80 to €200 at private Italian clinics, while many local health authorities and animal welfare organisations offer subsidised rates of €40–€80.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a cat's pregnancy last?

Feline gestation lasts an average of 63–67 days, with a normal range of 61–72 days from the time of mating. The variation depends on breed (oriental breeds tend to have shorter gestations), litter size, and individual factors. If your pregnant cat goes beyond 70 days without signs of labour, contact your vet to rule out complications.

How can I tell how many kittens my cat will have?

The most accurate method is an ultrasound after the fourth week, or an X-ray after day 45 of gestation, when the foetal bones are calcified and visible on radiography. Abdominal palpation by the vet can provide an estimate, but is not always accurate, particularly with large litters. The average litter size is 4–5 kittens, but varies considerably.

Can a pregnant cat go outside?

It is strongly inadvisable to allow a pregnant cat outside, especially in the final weeks. The risks include abdominal trauma, infections, parasites, stress, and the possibility that she will give birth outdoors in unhygienic conditions. Keep her indoors in a safe and stimulating environment, with toys and interaction to prevent boredom.

What should I do if the cat rejects her kittens?

Maternal rejection is rare but can occur, particularly with first-time mothers, after a difficult birth, or if the kittens are weak. If the cat ignores or is aggressive towards the newborns, contact your vet immediately. Bottle-feeding with a specialist kitten milk formula may be necessary (never use cow's milk), given every 2–3 hours using a bottle or syringe. This requires total dedication for 3–4 weeks until weaning.

Caring for a pregnant cat requires preparation, attentiveness, and a readiness to step in when needed. With the right knowledge and veterinary support, you can guide your cat through this extraordinary experience while ensuring the health and wellbeing of both her and her kittens. If you would like to learn more about the importance of prevention, read our complete guide to cat neutering. To optimise your cat's diet during and after pregnancy, take a look at our article on how much a cat should eat and its calorie requirements.