A pregnant cat needs special care regarding its body, health, food, and drink. If not given proper care or if the cat does not get the necessary nutrients, various problems can occur in its body. Even the baby in her womb can be harmed.

Signs of Pregnancy in Cats

A female cat can become pregnant as young as four months old. Cats give birth two months after conception. They may begin to show signs of pregnancy around four weeks into their pregnancy.

• Weight gain: Pregnant cats gain weight to store energy for lactation and support their growing kittens. The weight gain is gradual and appears in the stomach.
• Swollen nipples: A pregnant cat’s nipples swell as her body prepares for birth and she produces milk. This is called “pinking up.”
• Vomiting: Pregnant cats may vomit more than usual due to hormonal changes, increased food intake, and less space in their abdomen. This is similar to morning sickness in humans.
• Increased appetite: Cats have increased appetites during pregnancy because they need more food to nourish themselves and their growing kittens. That’s why you should give your pregnant cat a little more healthy food.
• Sleeping more: Pregnant cats sleep more because they need more energy to grow their kittens.
• Personality changes: A cat’s personality may change during pregnancy due to hormonal fluctuations and physical discomfort. These changes can vary from cat to cat, and some may not show much change at all.
• Changes in behavior:
  • Affection
  • Restlessness
  • Nesting
  • Sleeping
  • Vocalization
  • Grooming
  • Pacing
  • Purring
• Distended abdomen: A cat’s abdomen may distend during pregnancy due to the growing kittens and extra amniotic fluid. This causes the abdominal wall to stretch.
• Nesting behavior: Pregnant cats exhibit nesting behavior to prepare a safe, warm, and comfortable place for their kittens.
• Milk production: Cats produce milk during pregnancy to provide nourishment for their kittens. The milk, called colostrum, contains antibodies that help kittens develop immunity.
• Kittens moving: As the kittens grow, the cat’s belly may become tight and round, and you might be able to see movement.

Creating a Safe Environment

A safe environment is important for a pregnant cat because it helps her feel secure and comfortable, especially when she gives birth.

To create a safe environment for a pregnant cat, you can provide a warm, quiet, and secluded space for her to give birth. This is called a kittening area or nest.

How You Can Create a Safe Environment

• A box or bed: First, take a fairly large cardboard box where your cat and her newborn kittens do not suffer. May she and her kittens move properly. It would be better if the box is closed from all sides, with only an opening for the mother cat. Since newborn kittens may have difficulty with light, you need to create a slightly dark area. You can also use a covered bed.
• Blanket or towels: You can place blankets or towels in the space you provide for newborn kittens and their mother to keep them warm and comfortable. Newborn kittens take time to acclimate to their environment, so it’s essential to keep them warm.

Where to Place the Kittening Area

• Choose a quiet area of the house that’s away from drafts and harsh lights.
• Keep it away from areas where people and other pets frequently move around.
• Place it close to where the mother cat can get food, water, and her litter box.

Nutrition During Pregnancy

Pregnant cats need a high-calorie diet that’s rich in protein and calcium. They also need foods that are easy to digest.

What to Feed a Pregnant Cat

A healthy diet is important for a pregnant cat because it supports the health of the mother and her kittens. Malnutrition can lead to complications during pregnancy and birth, and low birth weight for the kittens.

• Kitten food: A pregnant cat must be given the necessary amount of calories and protein for the health of the pregnant cat and her baby. Kitten food is a good choice because it provides the nutrients they need.
• Fish oil: Fish oil is important for pregnant cats because it contains omega-3 fatty acids, which support the healthy development of their brain and vision. Fish oil can also help with heart health, the immune system, and coat health. Pregnant cats need more calories, which should come from healthy fats and protein.

Energy-Dense Food for Pregnant Cats:

• Meat
• Fish
• Eggs
• Chicken
• Beef
• Fish oil
• Turkey
• Water: Water is important for pregnant cats because it helps them stay hydrated and healthy and supports the development of their kittens.

Veterinary Care

Veterinary care is necessary for pregnant cats because it helps identify and address health issues early, which can improve the outcomes for both the mother and the kittens.

When Should You Bring Your Pregnant Cat to the Vet?

• Confirm pregnancy: If you are in doubt about whether your cat is pregnant, you can go to the vet to rule out the possibility. They can confirm if your cat is pregnant.
• Health issues: Your cat’s health may experience a variety of changes during pregnancy. If you notice unusual signs, take her to the vet.
• Not eating: If your pregnant cat stops eating or eats less, you should visit a vet. Proper food is important for a pregnant cat’s health. Generally, a pregnant cat eats more food during her pregnancy, so a decrease in appetite is concerning.
• Diarrhea: Diarrhea is not normal for a pregnant cat. It can be a symptom of many diseases. If your cat suffers from diarrhea during pregnancy, you should visit a vet.
• Vomiting: Vomiting is normal for a pregnant cat, but if your cat is vomiting excessively and not eating, or if she is throwing up white foam or yellow liquid, you should visit a vet.
• Vaginal discharge: Vaginal discharge is not normal during pregnancy in cats, especially if it’s bloody. If you notice this, consult a vet immediately.