If you’ve ever been pregnant or know someone who was pregnant, you’re probably familiar with the urge to “build a nest,” or prepare a home for a newcomer. But, did you know that this nesting instinct also applies to cat behavior? In this article, we’ll explore what’s normal during cat pregnancy and delivery, including everything you need to know about nesting behavior.
quick overview
01
Nesting behavior is your cat’s way of creating a safe place to give birth to her kittens.
02
You can provide your cat with a nest box, but she may prefer to find her own space.
03
Contact your emergency veterinarian if your neutered female cat exhibits nesting behavior, as this may indicate a medical problem.
What is normal for a cat’s heat cycle?
Unneutered female cats can become pregnant from about 4 months of age. Importantly, they can become pregnant by mating with siblings, so always consider neutering when siblings of the opposite sex are together.
Cats are polyestrous, which means they come into heat multiple times during the breeding season. The time of year that a female cat begins her heat cycle or estrous cycle depends on geographic location and time of day. Cats in the northern hemisphere typically cycle from January to fall, but some indoor cats or cats in tropical climates may cycle year-round.
The average length of an estrous cycle is about three weeks; this can vary widely. Your cat may become pregnant at any point in her cycle.
Signs of heat include:
Female cats can be so persistent in these behaviors that it frustrates many pet parents.
Also read: How to Tell if a Cat Is Pregnant: Signs, Behavior, and Timeline of Labor
What is normal for a cat to be pregnant?
The average gestation period for felines is 63 days. Some cats give birth a few extra days, so the normal range is considered to be 63 to 65 days, or just over two months. Some cats will give birth as early as 58 days, while others may be 68 days pregnant. Signs of pregnancy include:
- weight gain
- a rounded or swollen abdomen
- increased appetite
- change in nipple appearance
- Behavioral changes (such as increased affection)
- nested behavior
If your intact female cat shows some of these signs, she may be pregnant. Your veterinarian will be able to confirm this with an ultrasound or x-ray. Your veterinarian will also advise your pregnant cat on nutrition and preventive care, both of which are critical to maintaining good health.
Also read: Cats in Heat: Signs, Symptoms, and Care
What is nested behavior?
Nest-building behavior is the drive by which the mother animal prepares its environment for newcomers. It stems from a cat’s natural instinct to protect kittens from predators.
Nest building is driven by the action of several hormones, including estradiol, progesterone, and prolactin. In cats, nesting behavior usually manifests as your cat finding a dark, warm and safe space, such as behind a closet or under a bed. She may also bring clothing or fabrics to this den.
Some pet parents provide their cats with nest boxes. It doesn’t have to be fancy, a simple cardboard box lined with towels will suffice. Don’t be offended if your cat chooses not to use your nest box. Don’t try to force her to use it, as this may stress her out even more.
Also read: Parenting a Pregnant Cat: What You Need to Know?
Why Do Domestic Cats Build Nests?
If you see nesting behavior throughout the female cat, she is likely pregnant and will likely give birth in the next week or so. You may have noticed the other signs detailed above, but sometimes it may not be clear.
This is especially true if your cat only carries one kitten; she may not have gained as much weight or have a bloated belly. Nest building is your cat’s way of creating a safe space and a comfortable place for her to raise her kittens.
If your cat has been neutered and is exhibiting nesting behavior, it is recommended that you speak to your veterinarian. It could be a sign of a hormonal imbalance, or it could mean she has “ovarian remnants.” These conditions can make her more likely to develop a uterine infection, or pyometra, in the small portion of the uterus that remains after surgery.
Also read: Feline Uterine Infection (Pyometra): Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
What makes the ideal litter for my cat?
If your cat is pregnant, you may want to help her in any way possible. If you provide her with a nest box, make sure it is in a dark and quiet place. This will make her feel safe and secure. It is important to choose a place with no draft. In the early days, newborn kittens cannot regulate their body temperature. If they are in a ventilated place, they will quickly become cold and even die.
Line your nest box with old towels or clothing. Cats tend to be clean when they give birth, but there may be a little fluid and you may want to throw away the bedding after delivery.
It can be helpful to keep your cat’s resources (her food and water bowls and litter box) in the same room as her den. In those early days, she may be reluctant to leave her kitten, and it may help to have the things she needs close by.
READ ALSO: How to Keep Your Cat From Jumping After Surgery
How do I know if my cat is in labor?
When your cat is ready to give birth to her kittens, her birth canal will begin to relax and widen. This phase usually lasts around 6 to 12 hours, and you may see some behavioral changes including restlessness, panting, or hiding.
As labor nears, she may settle in her nest box or hideout. However, a small percentage of cats choose to seek comfort from their pet parents during labor.
What is normal for a cat in labor?
In cats, normal labor is divided into three phases:
1. First stage of labor
During this time, the cervical and pelvic muscles relax, and the uterus begins to contract. Vaginal discharge is rare. Your cat may abandon her food and make repeated visits to her den. If this is her first baby, this could last up to 36 hours.
2. Second stage of labor
At this time, the uterine contraction gradually intensifies. The water pockets around the kitten will burst. At this stage, your cat will be naked and the kittens will be pushed out. Typically, this phase takes 5 to 30 minutes.
3. Third stage of labor
This is where the membranes and placenta pass. Usually, this happens after each kitten, but sometimes there may be a delay if a second kitten arrives soon. Mothers generally eat afterbirth, so unless you’re watching, you probably won’t see these. Typical intervals between kittens are about 10 minutes to an hour.
Sometimes cats interrupt labor and they stop to rest between kittens. This can last up to 24 to 36 hours and is to be expected. If you are unsure about your cat’s delivery, call your veterinarian.
Also read: Cat Delivery: What You Need to Know?
When should I call my veterinarian?
Cats usually give birth easily without intervention, but sometimes things go wrong. It’s advisable to keep an eye out for your cat while she’s having babies, and call your veterinarian if you notice any of the following:
- Excessive bleeding
- Green discharge from cat’s vulva/rear end
- any signs of discomfort
- unproductive tension
- signs of fatigue
- a kitten is stuck
If you are concerned that your cat is having problems at any stage of labor, call your emergency veterinarian right away. C-sections are uncommon for cats, but not unheard of. Prompt veterinary intervention increases the likelihood of a successful outcome. Always consult your veterinarian if your cat shows signs of pregnancy after neutering.
Also read: Early Spaying and Neutering of Cats
final thoughts
Nesting behavior is your cat’s way of creating a safe environment for her kittens. So if you’ve noticed your whole female cat starting to exhibit nesting behavior, congratulations, it might be time to get yourself ready for some adorable newcomers! However, if this is unexpected, you need additional support, or your cat has been neutered, please contact your veterinarian for advice.
Also read: How to Care for a Kitten: The Complete Guide
frequently asked questions
Why is my female cat building a nest?
If your female cat is intact and exhibiting nesting behavior, it probably means she is pregnant. If your cat has been neutered but exhibits nesting behavior, it could indicate a hormonal imbalance. In either case, you should seek advice from your veterinarian.
How soon after my cat starts nesting will it have babies?
Nesting behavior can be seen anytime during a cat’s final week of pregnancy. So your cat may be about to have kittens, or you may have to wait a few days before seeing them.
Should I be there for my cat during her labor?
There is no easy answer to this question. Some cats will seek comfort from their owners during labor. However, most people will choose to work alone in a quiet, safe place. If your cat decides to hide while she’s having babies, be obedient and respect her boundaries.
How many months is the cat pregnant?
The average gestation period for cats is 63 days, but some cats carry a few extra days. That’s the equivalent of just over two months.
view resources
Holst. B (2022) Reproduction and pregnancy management in felines: what is normal and when to intervene. Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery. 24 221-231. DOI https://doi.org/10.1177/1098612X221079708 [Retrieved 5th September 2022]
jennet. A et al. (2015) Evidence for seasonal breeding in the British domestic cat. Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery. 18:10 804-808. DOI https://doi.org/10.1177/1098612X15595665 [Retreieved 5th September 2022]
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