Guide To Cat pregnancy Gestation

Cat pregnancy gestation period ranges from 57-69 days in a usual course. You can know the due date of your cat by counting the days for her last heat. Now, this is not always possible to know. It's best to let the vet do the calculation. A cat may give birth to either one kitten, or a litter comprising of 2-8 kittens.

Confirming Cat Pregnancy

During her heat cycle, your cat can get pregnant, if she comes in contact with an un-neutered tom. Pregnant cats are called queens. They undergo various changes in their body and behavior during this time. Your cat's behavioral as well as physical changes become apparent three weeks after she gets pregnant.

In case you aren't able to confirm her pregnancy through the signs, consult a vet. He or she will tell whether your cat is pregnant by feeling her abdomen. X-rays or radiotherapy can also help to detect your cat's pregnancy.

Physical Changes

There is a series of changes that takes place in your cat's body during cat pregnancy gestation. However, in the first month, you won't be able to notice these signs. Your cat's abdomen swells only after the 5th week of pregnancy. Also, enlargement of the stomach depends on litter size growing inside the womb. Another sign is swollen and pinkish nipples. This is known as "pinking." Also, the hair surrounding the nipples recedes slightly. Swelling of nipples usually takes place after the 7th week of pregnancy.

Psychological Changes

There are many changes that occur in your cat during cat pregnancy gestation period. Some owners get worried about their cats. But, if these behavioral changes are accompanied with the above mentioned physical changes, you need to rejoice rather than worry. These are sure signs of pregnancy.

Your cat becomes restless and anxious in the last weeks of pregnancy. This is even more noticeable if she's pregnant for the first time. You'll observe her behavior. She will begin searching for a tranquil place with little human activity. Also, her growing belly will make her uncomfortable, leading to an irritable nature. Don't tease or disturb her at this time; she might get violent. Also, her big stomach will exert pressure on her bladder, making her excrete frequently around the house. You should understand and respect these changes and not scold her.

What You Can Do For Your Cat

Your cat needs your best care during cat pregnancy gestation. Here's what you should do:

• Provide her a maternity box.
• Give her nutritious food, plenty of water, and lots of love. Give her large servings of food, as she will tend to have an increased appetite at this time.
• Don't disturb her in her nesting box. Keep the box away from daily household noises and activities.
• Don't give her any supplements, unless advised by the vet.
• Keep the emergency number of your vet ready.

Your cat pregnancy gestation period is one of the important events happening in your house. Know about her pregnancy so that you can take proper care of her.