The gestation period of a domestic kitten is approximately 63 days; however, if you don't know the exact date of conception, you may not know exactly when the puppies are due to be born. If you pay particular attention to the typical physical behaviors and symptoms that occur close to giving birth, you can take care of the cat and know if the puppies are actually being born or if the pregnancy is proceeding normally.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Observe Behavioral Signals
Step 1. Pay attention if the cat is looking for a nest
In the days approaching the birth, she may start looking for a comfortable and protected place in which to give birth to the puppies and to be able to comfortably take care of them. Many cats approaching the "big event" are looking for a protected and intimate space, such as a hidden corner or a closet. If you find that he is examining these areas, you can arrange a blanket or towel to make them even more comfortable.
You can take care of preparing a shelter yourself, for example, a cardboard box; however, keep in mind that many cats want to choose "the farrowing room" themselves and may even change places
Step 2. Watch for changes in her behavior
As the baby's birth date approaches, the cat may appear restless and often pacing back and forth. You may also notice that your habits change; for example, if she generally has a rather shy and distant character, she could start to become particularly "cuddly" or vice versa.
Step 3. Check if you miss a meal
The pregnant cat typically eats more than usual, but as the day of birth approaches, she may lose her appetite or even avoid eating altogether.
Step 4. Check if you wash your genital area
The approach of the fateful day implies physiological changes that the kitten could perceive. In particular, you may see her washing or licking her pubic area; this behavior may or may not be accompanied by a loss of mucous secretions, which means that the time for delivery is really imminent.
Method 2 of 3: Examine the Cat
Step 1. Take your body temperature
You can start monitoring her from the sixtieth day of gestation to get a pretty good idea of the date of delivery. Even if you don't know for sure the day of conception, you can check your temperature regularly when physical signs make it clear that she is pregnant.
- The rectal temperature of a pregnant cat can range from 38 to 38.8 ° C.
- In the last two hours before giving birth, this temperature can drop to just over 1 ° C.
Step 2. Observe his physical condition
As the time for kittens approaches, her nipples and mammary glands begin to swell and the cat may lick them. Among other physical signs, you may notice that the abdomen lowers, while the vulva widens and softens; these are all signs you should be able to see pretty easily.
Step 3. Pay attention to the breathing rhythm
If you suspect that the birth is imminent and if the cat is letting herself be approached, listen carefully to her breathing, which may become faster and even panting; the kitten may also start purring rhythmically and steadily.
Step 4. Feel the abdomen to see if it is tense and feel the contractions
When the kittens are very close to birth, the mother begins to have contractions. You can control this phenomenon by gently placing a hand on his belly; abdominal tension and strain indicate that the contractions are taking place. You can also visually observe that the muscles contract and relax; at this stage the animal may lie on its side, which makes it easier for you to control.
Method 3 of 3: Observe Worrying Signs
Step 1. Call the vet if the labor is long
Most of the cats are able to give birth to kittens in complete autonomy; monitor your feline friend to see if the birth has begun. If symptoms (such as contractions) indicate that you are in intense labor but nothing happens after an hour of pushing and straining, call your doctor right away. this can determine if the cat needs help.
Step 2. Check the cat carefully if her body temperature rises
Monitoring this parameter not only helps you to understand when the birth is approaching, but also to identify any complications. The temperature of a giving birth cat should drop; if it increases, stay alert and measure it again as soon as possible. If it continues to be above normal, call your vet.
Step 3. Look for suspicious secretions
Childbirth is accompanied by bleeding, mucous discharge and amniotic fluid; however, if the bleeding is too heavy or you notice a bad smell, call your vet as this is a sign of a problem.
Step 4. Pay attention if the cat appears to be in pain
Childbirth involves some discomfort and behavioral changes, so it's hard to tell if the cat is okay. Most women in labor give birth to puppies without the need for any external intervention; however, if your little friend bites into the genital area, licks it, or whimpers, consider calling your vet to rule out potential complications.
Step 5. Monitor for behavioral warning signs
The approach of the birth leads the cat to act in an unusual way; however, lethargy and depression are not usually associated with this occurrence and could indicate a problem. Contact your vet describing what is happening for advice on how to proceed.
