Cat pregnancy, also known as queening, is an exciting yet delicate process that typically lasts around 63-67 days (about 9 weeks). If your cat is expecting, understanding the stages of cat pregnancy can help you provide the best care throughout each phase. This article will break down the cat pregnancy stages, including the early symptoms, fetal development, and key milestones, ensuring you are well-prepared to support your feline companion.
Week 1-2: Conception & Early Pregnancy Symptoms
Fertilization & Implantation
During mating, a female cat (queen) releases eggs, which are fertilized by sperm. The fertilized eggs travel to the uterus, where they implant into the uterine lining within 10-14 days.
Signs of a 2 Weeks Pregnant Cat:
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Subtle behavioral changes: Increased affection or slight withdrawal
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Decreased appetite: Some cats experience mild nausea
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Pink and swollen nipples (“pinking up”): A clear sign of early pregnancy
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Slight weight gain: Around 1-2 pounds (0.5-1 kg) as pregnancy progresses
Care Tips:
✔️ Ensure a nutrient-rich diet to support early fetal development.
✔️ Limit stress and handling to avoid discomfort.
✔️ No deworming or vaccinations unless advised by a vet.
Week 3-4: Visible Physical & Behavioral Changes
Fetal Development:
By week 3, embryos start forming vital organs, and the mother’s body increases blood flow to the uterus to support their growth.
Signs of Pregnancy:
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Morning sickness: Some queens experience vomiting (similar to human pregnancy).
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More noticeable weight gain: The belly starts slightly expanding.
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Increased appetite: She may eat more to nourish growing kittens.
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Behavioral changes: Some cats become more affectionate, while others prefer solitude.
Vet Check-Up:
At this stage, a veterinarian can confirm pregnancy via ultrasound. The heartbeat of the kittens is usually detectable around day 16-20.
Care Tips:
✔️ Start feeding high-protein, high-calcium kitten food.
✔️ Ensure she has a quiet, stress-free environment.
✔️ Monitor for excessive vomiting and consult a vet if concerned.
Week 5-6: Rapid Growth & Increased Appetite
Fetal Development:
By week 5, the kittens’ skeletal systems and facial features begin forming. Whiskers, ears, and tails start developing, and movement in the womb becomes noticeable.
Signs in the Mother Cat:
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Belly expansion becomes obvious
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Increased appetite due to growing energy demands
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Nipples further enlarge and may darken
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Occasionally, you may feel slight fetal movements
Care Tips:
✔️ Continue feeding kitten food to meet higher nutritional needs.
✔️ Provide a comfortable nesting area for the upcoming birth.
✔️ Avoid excessive handling of the belly, as it may cause discomfort.
Week 7-8: Nesting Behavior & Final Growth Phase
Fetal Development:
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Kittens grow fur and become fully formed.
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Their movements become more pronounced inside the womb.
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Mother’s body prepares for labor by producing colostrum (first milk).
Signs in the Mother Cat:
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Restlessness and nesting behaviors (looking for a quiet, comfortable place).
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Swollen belly with visible fetal movement.
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Milk production may begin.
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Some queens become more vocal or clingy as labor approaches.
Care Tips:
✔️ Place a whelping box in a quiet, safe area.
✔️ Monitor for signs of early labor (panting, excessive licking, or restlessness).
✔️ Reduce stress—avoid loud noises or sudden changes.
Week 9: Labor & Delivery (Queening)
Signs of Impending Labor:
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Loss of appetite
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Drop in body temperature (below 100°F/37.8°C)
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Excessive grooming, especially of the genital area
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Contractions & vocalization
Labor Stages:
1️⃣ Stage 1 (Pre-Labor)
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Lasts 6-12 hours
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Nesting, licking, and restlessness
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Some cats may experience mild contractions
2️⃣ Stage 2 (Active Labor & Birth)
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Kittens are born 15-60 minutes apart
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Mother cleans each kitten and bites the umbilical cord
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Can take up to 24 hours to deliver all kittens
3️⃣ Stage 3 (Afterbirth)
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The placenta is expelled after each kitten
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Ensure the mother does not retain a placenta, as this can cause infection
Post-Pregnancy & Kitten Care
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Mother nurses the kittens immediately after birth.
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Monitor for complications like mastitis (inflamed mammary glands) or retained placenta.
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Keep the nesting area warm (around 85°F/29°C) for newborn kittens.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the stages of cat pregnancy helps cat owners provide the best care from conception to birth. If you suspect your cat is 2 weeks pregnant, keep an eye out for early signs like pinking up, appetite changes, and mild nausea. As she progresses through the stages of cats pregnancy, offering a nutritious diet, a stress-free environment, and veterinary support will ensure a healthy delivery.
By being well-informed and prepared, you can ensure your feline friend has a smooth, safe, and stress-free pregnancy experience! 🐱💖