There are some things you have to be sure to take care of to assist your cat through her pregnancy. You should be aware of the signs of pregnancy so you can be sure to provide an optimal diet and prepare for the birth and post-birth considerations.
Signs Your Cat Is Pregnant
One of the first signs of pregnancy is a change in your cat's nipples. In a process known as 'pinking', the nipples will become swollen and pinken in color. Your cat may also become more affectionate and show an increase in appetite. She won't begin to gain weight until approximately 4 or 5 weeks into the pregnancy when her stomach will start to swell. A pregnant cat may also vomit, though this isn't a cause of alarm unless it is constant and prolonged. Your vet can perform an exam and ultrasound to confirm the pregnancy as early as two weeks in.
The Importance of Nutrition During Pregnancy
Pregnant cats should be eating foods that are high in protein, vitamins and minerals as soon as possible. If your cat is already eating premium cat food she can continue on this until the final weeks of pregnancy. For the last three to four weeks, gradually switch over to premium canned kitten food. Start by mixing this new diet with the old food to prevent digestive upsets. A nursing cat should be kept on the kitten food until the kittens are weaned. The higher calorie content in kitten food is great for a cat that needs energy to produce milk for her young.
If you aren't already giving your cat vitamin supplements it is safe to give them during and after pregnancy. Too many supplements, however, can harm the mother and kittens so check with your veterinarian about dosage amounts. Low levels of calcium are a particular problem for nursing cats and may lead to a potentially fatal disease called eclampsia or hypocalcemia. If your cat is eating kitten food in her final weeks of pregnancy she should be receiving the proper nutrients.
When It's Time To Give Birth
The gestation period for a cat is approximately nine weeks. A few days before birth your cat will probably want to be alone and find a comfortable and private spot to have her kittens in a process known as nesting. On the other hand, she may follow her owner's around and seek attention or pace around the house. Physically, she will start producing milk and her nipples will swell. She may also have less of an appetite, lick her genitals or vomit, though not all cats exhibit these symptoms.
Cats generally do not need any help during labor. If your cat is showing signs that labor is near, owners can try to set up an area for the birth such as a closet or bathroom. A box or basket with towels that is easy to climb into can work well. Bring an extra litter box, fresh water and food to this spot, but know that your cat may not choose to give birth here.
Post-Natal Care For Mothers and Kittens
After birth, make sure the mother and kittens are warm and secluded from children or other pets. Keep fresh water and food nearby along with a clean litter box.
Kittens should nurse every 2 to 3 hours. The first milk that a mother produces is called colostrum and is a major source of nutrition, antibodies for immunity, and hydration for nursing kittens. Right after giving birth, a nursing cat passes on essential nutrients, protein antibodies, vitamins and electrolytes to kittens on the first day they are born. It is essential that kittens nurse in the first 24 hours after they are born in order to receive these maternal antibodies. Kittens that receive bottle feeding immediately after birth will not get this immunity from their mother to prevent possibly fatal diseases like feline panleukopenia.