Care for a pregnant cat

How long does pregnancy last in cats?
Definitely, the question of how long a pregnancy lasts in cats cannot be answered. The term can fluctuate within 9 weeks, and for long-haired breeds the pregnancy of a cat lasts longer than for short-haired ones: in the first case it is usually 63-72 days, in the second – 58-68.
In addition, the gestation period in cats also depends on the number of kittens: if there are more than five, then the birth may be early, but if it is less, the time is on the contrary delayed. It is considered normal that a cat’s pregnancy may take a week, but if kittens are born a week earlier than expected, they may not survive.
Signs of pregnancy in cats
Pregnancy of a cat is easy to identify both by the external signs of the animal and by its behavior. Within 20-30 days after conception, the cat will round up and the nipples will begin to peel slightly, and this will be easily noticed by turning the animal backwards. In addition, during early pregnancy, the cat becomes drowsy and inactive, and sometimes the animal may vomit, but this is quite normal.
In the later periods, the signs of pregnancy in cats are primarily reduced to an increase in the abdomen (it takes a pear shape), as well as to a certain deterioration in appetite (in some breeds).
Eating a pregnant cat
Eating a pregnant cat is a special aspect. During this period, the animal should be given more milk and meat, as well as choose super premium food. However, the first three weeks the diet of the animal can be almost not changed, although it is desirable to pick up food that contains more protein, or buy food specifically designed for pregnant animals.
But from the fourth week on, the cat needs to be fed with food containing a large amount of protein, and the number of meals can be increased up to 4-5 times a day, simultaneously reducing portions.
At the same time, if this is the first pregnancy of a cat, special attention should be paid to nutrition so that it does not have unforeseen complications. In particular, care should be taken to ensure that the animal is not too well, because too fat a cat can have serious problems with childbirth.
Care for a pregnant cat
In general, pregnant cats do not need any special care. They just have to eat well and sleep more, and the animal regulates periods of sleep and activity.
However, the cat’s behavior during pregnancy is sometimes unpredictable, and if it wants to run, it should be restricted from jumping to great heights: during this period it becomes a little awkward, so it can break or unsuccessfully jump. Also, caring for a pregnant cat provides for regular inspection and palpation of the tummy, but it is better if the veterinarian does this, because the owner can press too hard and damage the kittens.
In general, as soon as you notice the symptoms of pregnancy in a cat, you should treat it more carefully. Of course, there is a false pregnancy in cats, but in any situation it is better to consult a doctor, because only he can determine all the signs correctly, prescribe proper care for a pregnant cat and choose the optimal nutrition for a pregnant cat. Especially appeal to the doctor is important if the cat needs to be cured of intestinal parasites, fungal or other diseases. Therefore, it is better to ask in advance how to determine the pregnancy of the cat, and at the first signs contact your regular veterinarian for advice.