The interval between mating and the birth of the kittens is approximately sixty three days. During the first three to four weeks of the gestation period, little in the cat's behavior suggests that she is pregnant, and nothing much needs to be done for her. Keep her surroundings comfortable and give her lots of affection. There is no need to change her normal diet during this period. If you notice fleas or parasites, ask your vet what measures you should take to get rid of them. Not all pesticides may be appropriate to use on a pregnant cat.
By the thirty fifth day, your queen's nipples will begin to enlarge and turn pinkish. by about the forieth day, her abdomen will be noticeably swollen;x-rays will show the presence of kittens. As the time of birth app[roaches you may notice a milky white fluid being excreted from the enlarged breats. The cat will also begin to gain weight, since just prior to delivery she will be eating about twice the amount of food she normally does.
Moderate exrcise is very good for a pregnant female and will help make delivery easier. The fetuses are well cushioned and will not be harmed by normal activity. Avoid violent, aggressive play, however; your pregnant cat should not be allowed to jump from high places, and children should not lift her.Any fall could result in a miscarriage.
Avoid medications,vaccinations, and worming during your cat's pregnancy, unless your veterinarian advises you otherwise
Because of her increased size, your cat may not be able to groom herself properly. She will enjoy it if you brush and comb her every day to remove loose or dead hair and keep her skin in good condition.
During the last weeks of prgnancy your cat may become quiet and sedentary, perhaps lounging in a favorite spot for long periods of time. Do not be concered. This favorite place is probably where you cat will give birth. When the actual moment of birth arrives, however, your cat may decide to change locations-moving to an open drawer, laundry basket or some other place of privacy. Many vets recommend that you provide your pregnant cat with a maternity box. A large ordinary cardboard box will do nicely, with a lid and lined with rags, cotton sheeting or newspapers. This maternity box, which is best introduced to your cat a week or two before the kittens are due, should be twice as large as the cat's usual bed so that there is rooom for here and her litter. The sides of the box should be hight enough to keep the kittens from climbing or falling out. The box should be placed in a private and quiet corner of your house. If your cat prefers another location, move the box there.
The location you establish as a birthplace should not only be kept warm, but clean and dry as well. Cold, damp quarters are one of the leading causes of early kitten mortality. The floor temperature should be between eighty five and ninety degrees fahrenheit for the first week of the kitten's lives. If your heating system cannot supply such heat, you might try placing a heating pad wrapped in the blanket beneath the maternity box. After the first week, the temperature can be reduced to seventy degrees.
At the end of the eighth week of pregnancy, let your vet know that delivery is imminent. Most births are routine, but you will feel better knowing that veterinary assistance is available should you need it.
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