Recently, many novice pet owners have contacted the editors of Pet World Network, eager to know “How long does a cat need to be pregnant before giving birth?” They are not quite familiar with the cat pregnancy period and the signs a cat shows a few hours before delivery. Below, the editors from Pet World Network will introduce in detail the relevant knowledge about cat pregnancy and delivery.

Cat Pregnancy Duration

Generally speaking, the pregnancy period of a cat is 60 – 65 days, which is about two months, starting from the time of the cat’s first mating. During pregnancy, mother cats require special care and nutrition to ensure the healthy development of the fetus. Here are some tips on how to take care of pregnant mother cats:

1. Provide Nutritious Food: Mother cats during pregnancy need more nutrients and energy to support the growth and development of the fetus. It is recommended to provide high-quality, nutritionally balanced cat food, and add some nutritional supplements if necessary.
2. Create a Quiet Environment: Mother cats during pregnancy need a quiet and comfortable environment to reduce stress and anxiety. It is advisable to provide a clean, warm, and quiet place for the mother cat to make her feel comfortable and safe.
3. Regular Physical Examination: Mother cats during pregnancy need regular physical examinations to ensure the health of both the mother cat and the fetus. It is recommended to regularly take the mother cat to the vet for a physical examination and follow the vet’s advice and guidance.
4. Prepare a Delivery Place: About a week before the expected delivery date, it is advisable to prepare a safe, clean, and warm delivery place for the mother cat. You can use a small box or cage and line it with clean towels or mats.

It should be noted that the pregnancy and delivery situations of each cat may be different.

Signs a Cat Shows Just Before Giving Birth

1. Abnormal Behavior: Mother cats may exhibit abnormal behavior a few hours before delivery, such as being restless, constantly hiding, and refusing to eat. Some cats may become particularly close to their owners, while others may become reclusive.
2. Drop in Body Temperature: Within 24 hours before giving birth, the body temperature of a cat will drop below 37°C. This is because the cat’s body is preparing for delivery.
3. Rapid Breathing: A few hours before delivery, the cat’s breathing will become rapid and shallow. This is because the cat’s uterus is contracting and preparing for delivery.
4. Increased Secretions: A few hours before giving birth, mother cats will have increased vaginal secretions. These secretions are usually transparent or pinkish, and sometimes contain blood streaks.
5. Hardened Abdomen: A few hours before delivery, the mother cat’s abdomen will become harder. This is because the uterus is contracting.

If your cat shows the above signs, it may mean that it is about to give birth. It is recommended to prepare a safe, clean, and warm delivery place for the cat and contact the vet for help if necessary. It should be noted that the delivery situation of each cat may be different. If your cat shows abnormal symptoms, please contact the vet in time for help..