Unfortunately, it's possible to end up with a pregnant cat even if you are not prepared to welcome kittens. In this post, our Perry vets share information about the stages of a cat's pregnancy and how long each typically lasts.
How many kittens can a pregnant cat have?
Female cats can have as many as five litters of kittens every year. Each litter can have between one to nine kittens, although the average litter tends to number between four and six kittens.
This means it's possible for your unspayed female cat to have as many as 30 kittens annually. That's a lot of kittens to find loving homes for, which is why our veterinarians highly recommend having your female kitten spayed before she enters her first heat (reproductive period). If a female cat is not spayed, she may start having kittens of her own when she is as young as four months old.
How long are cats pregnant in weeks?
A healthy cat will be pregnant for about nine weeks, or 63 to 65 days.
How long are cats pregnant in months?
A cat's nine-week pregnancy is equivalent to slightly over two months.
Stages of a Cat's Pregnancy
Your cat's full gestation period can be broken into three distinct phases or trimesters, similar to a human pregnancy.
Stage 1 – First Trimester (1-21 Days)
It may be very difficult to determine the first trimester of your cat's pregnancy. While your kitty may start to display subtle changes, only the most observant cat parents will likely notice any signs. You might see your feline companion's appetite increase slightly or some behavior changes begin to develop.
Stage 2 – Second Trimester (21-42 Days)
As your cat's pregnancy progresses, she'll start to show more apparent physical signs. You may see your cat's tummy grow and stick out more. This is a good time to schedule an exam with your vet to have your kitty's pregnancy confirmed. Your veterinarian can also provide valuable advice on how to care for your cat during her pregnancy. They will also share the steps you can take to help ensure your cat has a successful birthing process.
Stage 3 – Third Trimester (42 - 63 Days)
During the final weeks of your cat's pregnancy, you will be able to spot several more obvious changes to your pet. The most obvious sign is that your kitty's abdomen will become visibly swollen. She may begin exhibiting 'nesting' behaviors in preparation for the arrival of her kittens. You may also notice a large increase in your kitty's appetite.
What To Expect From a Cat's Labor & Delivery
Cats will most likely give birth when they reach day 63 of their pregnancy. It is also normal for them to give birth between days 63 and 65. Signs that your kitty is in labor include restlessness, pacing, and vocalization.
Once a cat's labor begins, it should progress fairly quickly. Kittens tend to arrive at intervals throughout four to six hours. There could be as little as ten minutes between the birth of each kitten or as long as an hour. In some cases, complications may arise, and it's essential to have a veterinarian's contact information readily available as the big day approaches.
If your cat shows any signs of distress contact your vet straight away for immediate guidance, or reach out to your nearest animal emergency hospital.
How To Prepare For a Cat to Give Birth
To ensure a healthy pregnancy and smooth delivery, provide your pregnant cat with a nutritious diet, access to plenty of fresh water, and a quiet, comfortable space to rest. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential. These examinations allow your veterinarian to monitor your cat's overall health and address any concerns that arise.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.