Guide to Caring for a Pregnant Cat — Step by Step

A practical translation from Arabic to English for the complete guide — from pregnancy confirmation to postpartum care — divided into time stages, supply lists, daily routines, and emergency tips.

Quick introduction

The gestation period for cats usually lasts from 58 to 67 days.
This guide covers: pregnancy confirmation, stages of pregnancy (weeks 1-3, 4-6, 7-9), preparation for delivery, delivery, and post-delivery care.

Basic necessities (Prepare early)

• Kitten food (wet or dry, high in protein).
• The clean food and water bowls are placed in a quiet and stable location.
• Birth box (cardboard box or basket) with washable blankets.
• Clean cat litter and an extra litter box.
• Paper towels and cotton towels.
• A small scale to weigh the cat weekly.
• Small sterile scissors (for emergency veterinary use only).
• Contact numbers for the veterinarian and the emergency clinic.

Confirmation of pregnancy (weeks 1-2)

1. Monitor behavior: changes in appetite, increased sleep, calmer mood.
2. Veterinary examination: Around day 20-30 after mating, ultrasound can confirm pregnancy.
3. Vaccines/medications: Do not administer any medication or vaccine without veterinary consultation — some are not safe during pregnancy.

Week 3-6 (mid-pregnancy)

• Nutrition: Gradually transition to kitten food or protein-rich meals. Provide 3-4 small meals daily.
• Weight: Record the weekly weight changes.
• Activity: Reducing rough play and high jumps, but allowing gentle movement.
• Care: The nipples become larger and more pink — this is normal.

Weeks seven to nine (preparing for childbirth)

1. Birth box: Prepare a warm and quiet box with blankets two weeks before the due date.
2. Nutrition: Appetite may increase; keep food available throughout the day.
3. Note: Monitor changes in breathing, anxiety, or fatigue.
4. House rules: Tell the family not to disturb the cat's birthing area.

Signs of impending labor (24-48 hours before)

• The body temperature decreases by 1-2 degrees Celsius (normal: 37-38.5 degrees Celsius).
• The cat is looking for safe places to nest.
• Loss of appetite.
• Repeated licking of the abdominal area.

During childbirth — what to do and what to avoid
No:

• Do not touch or pull the puppies.
• Do not move the cat or the box unless it is absolutely necessary.

Do:

1. Watch quietly from a distance.
2. Record the time between each puppy (usually 10 minutes – 1 hour).
3. If the contractions last for more than an hour without the appearance of a puppy or foul-smelling discharge — contact the veterinarian.
4. Prepare towels to gently dry the kittens if necessary (the mother usually does this).

After childbirth (the first week)

• Nutrition: Continue on a high-protein diet; the mother may eat more due to breastfeeding.
• Kittens: Make sure each kitten nurses within two hours. Contact the veterinarian if any of them are weak.
• Cleanliness: Changing the blankets and cleaning the box daily.
• Veterinary examination: within 24-48 hours after birth for both the mother and the kittens.

Simple daily routine

• In the morning: Check breathing and energy; replenish food/water.
• Noon: Clean the litter box; replace the dirty bedding.
• Evening: Serve the main meal, record the weight weekly, observe behavioral changes.
• At any time: Contact the veterinarian if you see any abnormal signs.

Common problems

• Light bleeding: normal after childbirth, but heavy bleeding or a foul odor = an emergency.
• Not nursing: Use a cat milk substitute after consulting a veterinarian.
• Difficult birth: Long contractions without a puppy or green/red discharge = to the veterinarian immediately.

Practical tips

• No medication without veterinary approval.
• Keep the environment calm and peaceful.
• Weekly monitoring of weight and mood.
• Keep the emergency numbers for the veterinarian visible.

Frequently Asked Questions

• When should you contact the veterinarian? Severe bleeding, prolonged contractions, severe weakness, or failure to give birth after 67 days.
• When should vaccination be done? After weaning, under the supervision of a veterinarian. Never during pregnancy.
• Can I separate the kittens? Only for medical reasons.

Conclusion

Caring for a pregnant cat means good nutrition, a safe birthing space, regular monitoring, and being prepared to contact the veterinarian if necessary. Following this guide ensures a safe and healthy experience for your cat and her kittens.