How Long Are Cats Pregnant? Timeline, Stages & What to Expect
If you suspect your cat may be pregnant — or you’re preparing to care for a mama-to-be — it’s natural to wonder: How long are cats pregnant? The answer isn’t just about counting days. Feline pregnancy involves distinct developmental stages, behavioral changes, and specific care needs that every pet parent should be aware of.
In this guide, we’ll break down the average cat pregnancy length, stages of gestation, early signs, and what to expect at each milestone — all supported by expert veterinary sources.
How Long Are Cats Pregnant?
The average pregnancy length for domestic cats is:
- 58 to 67 days
- (Most commonly around 63–65 days, or about 9 weeks)
This can vary slightly depending on the breed, age, and number of kittens in the litter.
Source: VCA Animal Hospitals – Feline Pregnancy
Feline Pregnancy Timeline: Week-by-Week Breakdown
Week 1–2: Fertilization and Early Development
- Mating occurs, and fertilized eggs travel to the uterus.
- No physical changes yet.
- Some cats may seem more affectionate or restless.
Week 3–4: Implantation & First Signs
- Embryos implant in the uterus.
- Nipples begin to turn pink (known as “pinkening”).
- Possible morning sickness (vomiting or appetite drop).
- The belly may start to feel firmer.
Vet tip: A veterinarian can confirm pregnancy by palpation (feeling the abdomen) around day 20.
Week 5–6: Rapid Fetal Growth
- Noticeable weight gain and belly enlargement
- Appetite increases significantly
- You may even feel kittens move by week 6
- Behavior may shift to nesting mode
Learn how to support her diet: Cat Sounds Explained: What Your Cat Is Trying to Tell You
Week 7–8: Preparation for Birth
- Nesting intensifies — she may seek quiet corners or closets
- Nipples enlarge and may produce colostrum (first milk)
- She may lick her belly or seem clingier
Tip: Start preparing a clean, warm nesting area with soft towels or blankets.
Week 9: Labor and Delivery
- Temperature may drop slightly (~99°F)
- Restlessness, pacing, excessive grooming, or loud vocalizing
- The first kitten is usually born within 1–2 hours of active labor
- Each kitten typically follows every 15–30 minutes
Most cats give birth without human help, but always consult your vet if labor exceeds 4 hours without kittens.
Signs Your Cat May Be Pregnant
| Sign | Description |
|---|---|
| Pink, enlarged nipples | Often appears by week 3 |
| Increased appetite | Especially by weeks 4–5 |
| Weight gain | Gradual abdominal rounding |
| Behavior changes | More affectionate or withdrawn |
| Nesting behavior | Searching for quiet, dark spaces |
Not sure? Ask your vet to confirm with an ultrasound (from day 16+) or X-ray (after day 42).
How Many Kittens Will She Have?
The average litter size for cats is 4 to 6 kittens, but this can vary:
- First-time moms often have smaller litters (1–3 kittens)
- Some breeds, like Siamese or Maine Coons, may have larger litters
Fun Fact: A cat can get pregnant by multiple males in one cycle — kittens in the same litter can have different fathers!
How to Care for a Pregnant Cat
Nutrition
- Feed a high-calorie, kitten-formulated diet starting in week 4
- Keep fresh water available at all times
- Avoid raw or undercooked meat — risk of parasites
Comfort & Nesting
- Provide a quiet, safe nesting box
- Limit stressful situations
- Avoid picking her up too much — especially in late pregnancy
Vet Visits
- Schedule at least one exam to monitor health and development
- Ask about deworming and vaccinations — some are unsafe during pregnancy
What to Expect During Labor (Queening)
| Stage | What Happens |
|---|---|
| Stage 1 | Restless behavior, nesting, contractions begin (lasts 12–24 hrs) |
| Stage 2 | Active labor; kittens are born (15–30 min apart) |
| Stage 3 | Placenta is delivered for each kitten |
Don’t panic if mom eats the placenta — it’s natural and contains nutrients.
Only intervene if:
- She hasn’t delivered in 4+ hours
- A kitten is stuck for over 30 minutes
- She seems exhausted, in distress, or unresponsive
Learn more: Homemade Cat Food Recipes: A Guide to Healthy and Happy Cats
After Birth: Postnatal Care
For the Mother
- Ensure a calm, warm space for recovery
- Continue feeding the kitten food while nursing
- Watch for signs of infection or mastitis (swollen, red nipples)
For the Kittens
- Monitor nursing and weight gain
- Avoid handling them too much for the first few days
- Schedule a vet visit within the first week
- By 4–6 weeks, kittens begin weaning and exploring — and will be ready for new homes around 8–10 weeks (or later)
Final Thoughts: Supporting Your Cat Through Pregnancy
Feline pregnancy is a beautiful yet complex process. From the first signs to delivery day, it’s essential to understand your cat’s physical and emotional changes — and to partner with your vet every step of the way.
By staying informed and preparing properly, you’ll ensure a healthy, safe experience for both the mother and her kittens — and maybe even fall in love with the miracle of new life.
FAQs: Feline Pregnancy
Yes. Cats can go into heat as soon as 1–2 weeks after giving birth. Spaying is crucial to prevent back-to-back pregnancies.
Spaying before the first heat is ideal. If she’s already pregnant, consult your vet — timing and health status matter.
Yes — around week 5–6, gentle palpation can detect fetal movement, but only a trained vet should do this safely.
Contact your vet if you notice: Bleeding, Vomiting, Refusal to eat, Lack of movement in kittens, or Long labor with no progress.
WRITTEN BY
Noman Atiq
Freelance Writer and Researcher🐾
