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| How to tell if a cat is pregnant |
How to tell if a cat is pregnant
In this article you learn about :how to tell if a cat is pregnant. Having kittens can be an exciting albeit tiring experience for the whole family. If your cat often explores the neighborhood, it is likely that she will mate with a male. If you suspect that she might have mated, there are a few signs that hint she might be pregnant.
The feline period of pregnancy is known as ‘queening’, and a cat, if not spayed, is able to fall pregnant from as early as 4 months old. Pregnancy lasts between 63 and 65 days, and a cat is usually in heat every 2 to 3 weeks.
How to tell if a cat is pregnant: Sings
There are several signs that can indicate if a cat is pregnant. Here are some of the most common ones:
- Changes in Behavior: Pregnant cats may become more affectionate and seek out extra attention from their owners.
- Changes in Appetite: A pregnant cat's appetite may increase or decrease, depending on the stage of pregnancy.
- Enlarged Nipples: As the pregnancy progresses, a cat's nipples will become enlarged and may be more prominent.
- Weight Gain: A pregnant cat may gain weight steadily throughout her pregnancy.
- Abdominal Swelling: As the kittens grow inside the uterus, a pregnant cat's abdomen will begin to swell.
- Nesting Behavior: In the later stages of pregnancy, a cat may begin to display nesting behavior, such as seeking out a quiet and comfortable space to give birth.
It is important to note that not all cats will display these signs, and some cats may display them without being pregnant. The most reliable way to determine if a cat is pregnant is to take her to a veterinarian for an examination. Read also: Is your cat sad? Causes and Signs of Cat Depression.
Helping Your Cat
Leading up to giving birth, your cat will begin nesting. This means she will try to create a space in which to give birth and care for her young. This is a good indication that the birth will happen soon. It is recommended that you contact your vet to seek advice on the birth process.
Giving birth comes naturally to all living things. But you can help your cat by preparing a safe, comfortable place to have her kittens. A box filled with blankets and newspaper or a pet bed is perfectly fine for your cat. But she will give birth where it is most comfortable for her, ultimately.
Cats will stop eating a day before giving birth. It is recommended that you keep your cat indoors in case she gives birth in an unfavorable place outside.While cats will generally be able to give birth without assistance, incidents could arise that require professional help. It is in your cat and her kittens’ best interest for you to have a vet on call and to supervise the birth to make sure everything goes smoothly.
If kittens need to be removed from their mother, they need to be kept warm. It is suggested that a microwavable beanie bag is used instead of a hot water bottle as the kittens can puncture the latter with their claws. Read also: How to take care of your old cat.