Cat Pregnancy Calculator

Expecting a litter of kittens can be an exciting time for any cat owner. Understanding the timeline of your cat's pregnancy is crucial for providing the best care and preparing for the arrival of the new kittens. Our Cat Pregnancy Calculator is a simple tool designed to give you an estimated due date, helping you get ready for the big day.

How the Calculator Works

The calculator works based on a simple principle: a cat's gestation period. You input the date of mating, and the calculator adds the average length of a feline pregnancy to that date.

• Average Gestation Period: A cat's pregnancy, also known as the gestation period, typically lasts for about 9 weeks. The most commonly accepted average is 63 days.
• Calculation: Estimated Due Date = Date of Mating + 63 Days

It is important to remember that this is an estimate. It's normal for a cat to give birth a few days before or after the calculated due date. A healthy pregnancy can range from 60 to 67 days.

Signs of a Pregnant Cat (Queen)

If you're unsure of the mating date, or even if your cat is pregnant, there are several signs to look out for:

• "Pinking-Up": Around 2-3 weeks into the pregnancy, your cat's nipples will become darker, redder, and more enlarged. This is one of the earliest and most reliable signs.
• Morning Sickness: Just like humans, some cats may experience a period of vomiting or decreased appetite early in the pregnancy. This should be brief. If it persists, contact a vet.
• Swollen Abdomen: By about week 5, your cat's belly will start to noticeably swell. It will continue to grow until she gives birth.
• Increased Appetite and Weight Gain: A pregnant queen will need more food to support her growing kittens. She will gain weight steadily throughout the pregnancy, typically 2 to 4 pounds in total.
• Nesting Behavior: As the due date approaches, your cat will start looking for a safe, quiet, and comfortable place to give birth. This is known as "nesting." You can help by providing a box with soft blankets in a secluded area.
• Increased Affection: Many cats become more affectionate and seek out more attention from their owners during pregnancy.

Caring for Your Pregnant Cat

Proper care is essential for a healthy mother and kittens.

• Veterinary Check-up: Confirm the pregnancy with your vet. They can provide advice on nutrition, care, and what to expect during labor.
• Nutrition: Feed her a high-quality kitten or "growth" formula food. This provides the extra calories and nutrients she needs. Start transitioning her to this food in the second half of her pregnancy.
• Comfort: Provide a comfortable, safe "nesting" box a week or two before the estimated due date.
• Keep Her Indoors: To protect her from illnesses and accidents, it's best to keep a pregnant cat indoors, especially as her due date nears.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How accurate is the due date calculator?

It provides a very good estimate. Most cats will give birth within a few days of the calculated date. However, just like in human pregnancies, it's not an exact science.

How can I know the exact mating date?

This can be difficult unless you witnessed the mating. If you have an indoor/outdoor cat, you may have to rely on your veterinarian's assessment and the physical signs of pregnancy to estimate how far along she is.

What should I do when my cat goes into labor?

For the most part, you should let her handle it. Cats are typically very capable of giving birth on their own. Keep a watchful eye from a distance to ensure there are no complications. Have your vet's emergency number handy just in case. Signs of labor include restlessness, panting, and vocalizing.