Cat pregnancy is a natural and exciting event, but it requires some knowledge and understanding to help your cat get through this stage successfully. The pregnancy period in cats is marked by several signs and symptoms, both behavioral and physical, before the cat enters labor.
It is essential to understand these stages to provide the proper care and support for your cat.
In this article from teketrek, we’ll cover everything you need to know about pregnancy signs, fetal development stages, and how to care for your pregnant cat, along with labor stages and how to assist her and her kittens.
We’ll also explore early pregnancy signs in cats and how to recognize them, as well as labor stage details and how to support your cat during this important time.
Our goal is to provide you with valuable information to help you understand the pregnancy and birth journey in cats and ensure the health and safety of your cat and her newborns.
Cat Pregnancy Symptoms and Fetal Development Week by Week
The pregnancy period in cats usually lasts between 63 and 67 days. Pregnancy symptoms may begin to appear about 2–3 weeks after mating. Common symptoms in cats include:
- Behavioral changes: The cat may become quieter or more affectionate and may seek quiet places to give birth.
- Physical changes: You may notice an increase in appetite and weight, enlarged nipples, and changes in nipple color.
- Nausea: The cat may experience nausea and vomiting early in the pregnancy.
- Abdominal enlargement: The cat’s belly gradually grows larger during the pregnancy.

Fetal Development Week by Week:
- Week 1–2: The fertilized egg forms and moves to the uterus.
- Week 3: Essential organs such as the nervous system and heart begin to develop.
- Week 4: Hair, claws, and teeth start to form.
- Week 5: The kitten’s hindquarters form, and the lungs, liver, and kidneys enlarge.
- Week 6: The fetus begins to receive oxygen and nutrients; neural and physical development advances.
- Week 7: The fetus starts to move.
- Week 8: Growth continues, and the fur develops.
- Week 9: The cat prepares for labor, and fetal movements become more noticeable.
When Do Cats Start Showing Signs of Pregnancy?
Cats typically begin showing signs of pregnancy about two to three weeks after successful mating. However, this timeframe can vary slightly between cats. In the early weeks, symptoms may be subtle, but as the pregnancy progresses, signs like weight gain and appetite or behavioral changes become more noticeable.
Learn about sea bass: characteristics, behavior, and diet of this marine species
Difference Between True and False Pregnancy
False pregnancy in cats is a condition where the cat exhibits all signs of real pregnancy despite not being actually pregnant. False pregnancy can cause confusion and stress for both the cat and its owner.
Key Differences Between True and False Pregnancy:
- Diagnosis: Ultrasound imaging is the only definitive way to differentiate between real and false pregnancy. In a true pregnancy, fetuses and gestational sacs will appear, while none are seen in a false pregnancy.
- Behavior: In both cases, cats may show maternal behaviors like nesting, increased affection, self-grooming, anxiety, excessive sleeping, or loss of appetite.
- Physical signs: Physical changes like belly enlargement and swollen mammary glands may appear in both cases. However, the breasts are generally more enlarged in real pregnancy due to milk production.
- Duration: False pregnancy typically lasts 40 to 50 days, after which the cat enters another heat cycle.
Signs That Labor Is Approaching
Recognizing signs that labor is near is crucial for providing proper support to your cat during this critical period. Key signs include:
- Loss of appetite: Pregnant cats may stop eating right before labor due to fetal pressure on the stomach or general anxiety.
- Anxiety and restlessness: The cat may seem anxious and begin searching for a quiet, secluded place to give birth.
- Behavioral changes: Nesting behavior may begin, such as scratching or rearranging bedding, and frequent licking of the genital area.
- Drop in body temperature: One or two days before labor, the cat’s temperature may drop to around 37.2°C (99°F).
- Vaginal discharge: Clear or slightly bloody vaginal discharge may occur a few hours before labor begins.
- Contractions: You may notice visible abdominal contractions, a clear sign that labor is starting.
Everything you want to know about seahorses: description, habitat, species, and diet
Preparing a Safe Birthing Area at Home
Creating a safe and warm space for your cat to give birth is essential for the health and safety of both the mother and her kittens.
The area should be quiet and free of disturbances, with appropriate warmth and humidity. Prepare a birthing box with a soft, clean lining for comfort.
It’s also important to ensure the cat has easy access to food and water, along with emergency supplies, and to avoid disturbing the mother and her newborns.
How to Help Your Cat During Labor
Helping your cat during labor involves creating a calm and secure environment and offering support if needed:
- Provide a quiet, secluded space far from noise and disturbances.
- Ensure the area is warm and dry; heating lamps can help warm the box or crate.
- Use a large box lined with clean towels or soft blankets to simplify post-birth cleanup.
- Let the cat get used to the box before labor, if possible.
- Make sure the cat has enough space to move and deliver her kittens comfortably.
- If necessary, gently assist in breaking the amniotic sac, cleaning the kittens, or cutting the umbilical cord using a clean towel.
- After birth, ensure each kitten is breathing, kept warm, and nursing properly from the mother.

Postpartum Care for the Mother Cat
After delivery, it’s vital to maintain a calm and clean environment for the mother and her kittens.
Make sure the area stays sanitary, and provide fresh food and water.
Monitor the health of the mother and her kittens closely, and ensure the mother gets plenty of rest and proper nutrition so she can recover and care for her babies effectively.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the symptoms of pregnancy and the stages of labor in cats is essential for ensuring the mother and her kittens are well cared for.
By recognizing early pregnancy signs like behavioral changes and increased appetite, and being aware of labor indicators like restlessness and nesting behavior, cat owners can offer the necessary support during this important time.
Remember to consult your veterinarian regularly and perform the necessary checkups to ensure your cat’s health and the safety of her kittens.