Cat pregnancy is a fascinating journey that brings new life into your home.
Waiting for a new member in household is exciting, especially when it’s a litter of furry adorable kittens. Cat pregnancy is a unique experience for both your feline and you, but also full of care requirements for your pregnant cat. In this post, we’ll try to understand the world of feline maternity, and cover everything from the early signs of pregnancy to prenatal care and birthing preparations.
How Long Are Cats Pregnant?
Cat pregnancy, in most cases, lasts about 63 to 65 days. However, some cats may need more or less time. If it’s your cat’s first litter, she could be pregnant for a few days longer. Cats are like humans in that their babies can arrive early as well. Early labor can be triggered by hormonal imbalances, infections, injury or tressors, like a changing environment or disarray in the house.
If your cat’s pregnancy lasts less than 60 days, there is a risk that the kitties may not survive. Typically, both younger and older cats tend to have smaller litters, usually consisting of just two or three kittens. In contrast, a cat aged three or four years often gives birth to four to five kittens. It’s worth noting that a cat can become pregnant and deliver kittens as early as six months of age.
What Are The Stages Of Cat Pregnancy?
There are 3 stages during the cat pregnancy. These are:
Stage 1 – Pre-implantation (from Days 0 – 12)
This is the stage at which fertilization of the egg occurs within the uterine tube. Subsequently, it embarks on a journey down the oviduct and reaches the uterus, usually around the sixth day of development. Once inside the uterus, it becomes enveloped by specialized cells that attach to the uterine wall. Specific cells congregate at one end of the egg, forming the embryo, which will develop into the new kitty. The rest portions contribute to the formation of the placenta, that is the link between the mother and the embryo.
Stage 2 – Embryogenesis (Day 12 – 24)
This is the stage where the nervous system, heart, and vertebral column (spine) are start forming within the developing embryo (kitten). Blood vessels start connecting it to the placenta, within 2-3 days. Subsequently, the liver, digestive tract, respiratory system, limbs, sensory organs, skull, bladder, and other vital structures begin their formation. The size of the embryo is about 1/8th of an inch by day 15, grows to 3/8ths of an inch by day 21, and by the day 24 it has reached 5/8th.
A trained veterinarian, can detect the presence of kittens through abdominal palpation around the twentieth day after conception. By approximately 3 weeks, is the time that the queen’s nipples start to take on a pink hue and slightly enlarge. Additionally, the fur around her belly and nipple area may become sparser.
Stage 3 – Fetal growth (Day 24 to Birth)
During this phase, the organs of the developing kittens take on their correct shapes, nerve networks mature, and hormonal glands start functioning, regulating essential processes which in some cases continues after birth.
By approximately 3 weeks, the kittens reach a size of just over an inch. By day 35, they are encased in fluid-filled capsules and this is when their heads are large enough so that you feel them as distinct structures. It’s crucial to note that this delicate procedure should only be performed by a veterinarian, as inexperienced handling can lead to harm or even miscarriage.
In the later stages of pregnancy, the queen may display a pear-shaped abdomen, and fetal movements should become noticeable in the final two weeks. Her mammary glands will also enlarge, and a milky discharge may be expressed from the nipples. Additionally, a clear or blood-tinged discharge from the vulva may occur 12 to 24 hours before the queen goes into labor.
How To Tell If Your Cat Is Pregnant?
Telling that your cat is pregnant can prove to be quite challenging during the initial two trimesters. The first noticeable indication of feline pregnancy typically arises around days 16 to 20, referred to as ‘pinking up.’ During this stage, a queen’s nipples undergo a transformation, becoming visibly pinker and more prominent. Interestingly, cats in the early two trimesters often exhibit increased friendliness.
In the last 20 days of pregnancy, the growth of the abdomen and mammary glands are visible. Queens may engage in heightened grooming of their abdominal area and the region beneath their tail. They’ll also frequently display a heightened interest in locating suitable spots for nesting in preparation for giving birth.
Final Thoughts
We hope this comprehensive guide on cat pregnancy has been informative, offering you a deeper understanding of this incredible process. Have you had the joy of witnessing your feline companion being pregnant? Share your stories, experiences in the comment section below.
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