Cat Pregnancy Calculator
Calculate your cat's due date with precision. Track the pregnancy week by week, discover kitten development stages, and get guidance on care throughout the entire feline pregnancy journey.
How long are cats pregnant?
Cat pregnancy (feline gestation) lasts an average of 63-65 days (approximately 9 weeks), with a normal range of 58 to 71 days from mating.
- Average duration: 63-65 days (9 weeks)
- Normal range: 58-71 days
- Average litter size: 4-6 kittens (can range from 1 to 12)
Your cat is in week 7 of pregnancy. The kittens are developing fur and claws. Prepare the nesting box and maintain regular vet checkups.
Based on the ultrasound, your cat is approximately in week 4 of pregnancy.
Based on the symptoms observed, your cat has likely been pregnant for approximately 15 days. We recommend an ultrasound to confirm.
📅 Important Pregnancy Milestones
📖 How To Use This Calculator
Choose the calculation method
Use "Mating Date" if you know when your cat mated (most accurate), "Ultrasound Date" if your vet provided the gestational age, or "First Symptoms" for an approximate estimate.
Enter the relevant date
Input the date in the calendar field. For best results, be as precise as possible with dates.
View detailed results
The calculator will show the estimated due date, current pregnancy week, delivery window, and current development stage.
Generate the complete timeline
Use the "Pregnancy Timeline" tab to see all important dates, development milestones, and when to schedule vet appointments.
🐱 Understanding Cat Pregnancy
Feline pregnancy (also called feline gestation) is a fascinating process that lasts approximately 9 weeks. Unlike humans, cats can become pregnant multiple times per year and have multiple kittens in each litter. Understanding your cat's reproductive cycle helps you provide better care during pregnancy.
📌 Quick Facts About Cat Pregnancy
- Average duration: 63-65 days (range: 58-71 days)
- Fertile age: From 5-10 months old
- Litter size: 4-6 kittens on average (range: 1-12)
- Estrous cycle: Cats are seasonally polyestrous
- Ovulation: Induced by mating (induced ovulators)
The Cat's Reproductive Cycle
Cats are induced ovulators, meaning they only release eggs after mating. The heat cycle (estrus) can last 5-20 days and repeat every 2-3 weeks during breeding season (primarily spring and summer in natural light conditions).
Proestrus
1-2 days. The cat attracts males but won't accept mating yet.
Estrus (Heat)
5-14 days. Fertile period. Excessive vocalization, receptive posture.
Metestrus
3-14 days. If no mating occurs, hormonal decline begins.
Anestrus
Period of reproductive rest, typically during winter months.
🔍 Signs and Symptoms of Cat Pregnancy
Detecting pregnancy in cats can be challenging early on since symptoms are subtle. Here's what to watch for week by week:
| Time Period | Physical Signs | Behavioral Changes |
|---|---|---|
| Days 0-14 | No visible signs | Possible decrease in appetite |
| Days 15-18 | Pink, swollen nipples ("pinking up") | More affectionate or more withdrawn |
| Days 21-28 | Belly starting to enlarge | Increased appetite |
| Days 28-35 | Noticeable weight gain (1-2 kg / 2-4 lbs total) | Seeking quiet places |
| Days 35-42 | Clearly larger belly | Less active, more resting |
| Days 42-56 | Visible kitten movement | Increased vocalization |
| Days 56-63 | Nipples producing milk, temperature drop | Nesting behavior, restlessness |
⚠️ When to See a Veterinarian
Contact your vet immediately if you notice:
- Vaginal bleeding at any time
- Foul-smelling or colored discharge
- Sudden loss of appetite after week 3
- Persistent vomiting
- Extreme lethargy or fever
- No signs of labor after day 70
📅 Kitten Development Week by Week
Follow kitten development through the 9 weeks of feline pregnancy:
Week 1 (Days 1-7)
Fertilization and cell division. After mating, eggs are fertilized and begin dividing as they travel to the uterus. The embryos are the size of a pinhead.
Week 2 (Days 8-14)
Implantation. Embryos implant in the uterine lining. The placenta begins to form. You may notice subtle behavioral changes in your cat.
Week 3 (Days 15-21)
Organ formation. Embryos develop nervous system, heart, and spine. The cat's nipples become pink and enlarged. Ultrasound can detect heartbeats.
Week 4 (Days 22-28)
Rapid growth. Fetuses develop limbs, eyes, and ears. The cat's belly begins to visibly enlarge. Appetite increases significantly.
Week 5 (Days 29-35)
Toe formation. Fetuses develop toes, claws, and whiskers. Sex organs begin to differentiate. Your vet can estimate the number of kittens.
Week 6 (Days 36-42)
Fur development. Fetuses develop fur and coat color becomes defined. Bones begin to calcify. X-rays can accurately count kittens.
Week 7 (Days 43-49)
Maturation. Kittens are nearly fully formed. You can see and feel movements. The cat may start seeking nesting spots.
Week 8 (Days 50-56)
Final preparation. Kittens gain weight rapidly. Nipples may begin producing milk. Prepare the birthing box. The cat may become more restless.
Week 9 (Days 57-65+)
Birth imminent! Body temperature drops to ~99°F (37.2°C) 24 hours before labor. The cat seeks isolation, frequently licks genitals. Labor can last 2-24 hours.
🏥 Caring for Your Pregnant Cat
A pregnant cat (queen) needs special care to ensure a healthy pregnancy and strong kittens. Here's a comprehensive guide:
Nutrition
🍽️ Feeding During Pregnancy
- Weeks 1-4: Maintain normal feeding with quality food
- Weeks 4-6: Gradually increase food quantity by 25-50%
- Weeks 6-9: Switch to kitten food (higher calories and protein)
- Water: Always fresh and plentiful
- Frequency: Smaller, more frequent meals (belly presses on stomach)
Veterinary Appointments
| When | Exam | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Days 15-21 | Ultrasound | Confirm pregnancy, detect heartbeats |
| Days 28-35 | Palpation/Ultrasound | Estimate number of kittens |
| Days 40-45 | X-ray | Accurate kitten count |
| Days 55-60 | Prenatal checkup | Assess overall health, prepare for birth |
What to Avoid
❌ Don't Do During Pregnancy
- Vaccines: Avoid vaccinating during pregnancy (except emergencies)
- Medications: Don't give any medicine without vet approval
- Antiparasitics: Consult vet before applying
- Stress: Avoid sudden changes, travel, or new animals
- Handling: Don't squeeze the belly trying to feel kittens
🏠 Preparing for Birth (Queening)
Proper preparation for your cat's delivery can make all the difference. Start preparing at least 2 weeks before the expected due date.
The Nesting Box
Size
Large enough for the cat to stretch out, with high sides (6-8 inches) to keep kittens from escaping.
Bedding
Soft towels or old blankets. Easy to change and wash. Avoid fabrics that fray.
Temperature
Warm location (77-86°F / 25-30°C). Newborn kittens cannot regulate body temperature.
Environment
Quiet, dark, away from foot traffic. Seldom-used rooms are ideal.
Emergency Birthing Kit
🧰 Items to Have Ready
- 24-hour vet's phone number (most important!)
- Clean towels
- Disposable gloves
- Sterilized scissors and dental floss (for umbilical cord if needed)
- Small syringe without needle (to clear airways)
- Kitchen scale (to weigh kittens)
- Heating pad or hot water bottle
- Kitten milk replacer (for emergencies)
Signs Labor Is Approaching
🌡️ 24-48 Hours Before
- Rectal temperature drops to ~99°F (37.2°C)
- Refuses food
- Restlessness, seeking hiding spots
- Frequent licking of genitals
⏰ Labor Imminent
- Visible contractions
- Vocalization (meowing, purring)
- Clear vaginal discharge
- Squatting position, straining
🐾 The Cat Birth Process (Queening)
Cat labor (also called queening) usually happens naturally, but it's important to know what to expect and when to intervene.
Stages of Labor
Stage 1: Preparation (12-36 hours)
Uterine contractions begin. The cat may become restless, vocalize, and scratch at the nesting box. The cervix dilates. This stage can last 12-36 hours.
Stage 2: Delivery of Kittens
Strong, visible contractions begin. The first kitten should be born within 1 hour of active straining. Interval of 10-60 minutes between kittens. Total delivery can take 2-24 hours.
Stage 3: Delivery of Placentas
Each kitten comes with its placenta. The mother usually eats the placentas (normal and instinctive). Count to ensure all are expelled - one placenta per kitten.
🚨 When to Call the Vet IMMEDIATELY
- Strong contractions for more than 30 minutes without delivering a kitten
- More than 4 hours between kittens
- Dark green discharge before the first kitten
- Excessive bleeding (more than a tablespoon)
- Cat extremely weak or unresponsive
- Kitten stuck in the birth canal
- No kittens after 24 hours of labor starting
After Birth
In most cases, the mother cat handles everything instinctively. She will:
- Break the amniotic sac if it didn't rupture during birth
- Lick the kittens to stimulate breathing
- Chew through the umbilical cord
- Eat the placentas (normal and nutritious)
- Nurse the kittens
🐱 Pregnancy by Breed
While most cats have a gestation of 63-65 days, some breeds may show slight variations:
| Breed | Typical Gestation | Litter Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| DSH (Domestic Shorthair) | 63-65 days | 4-6 kittens | Generally uncomplicated pregnancies |
| Siamese | 62-64 days | 5-8 kittens | Larger litters, slightly shorter gestation |
| Persian | 64-66 days | 3-5 kittens | Higher risk of dystocia, consult vet |
| Maine Coon | 65-67 days | 4-6 kittens | Large kittens, may need C-section |
| Ragdoll | 64-66 days | 4-6 kittens | Generally smooth pregnancies |
| Bengal | 63-65 days | 4-5 kittens | Similar to domestic cats |
| British Shorthair | 64-66 days | 3-5 kittens | Smaller litters |
| Sphynx | 63-65 days | 3-5 kittens | Kittens need extra warmth |
💡 Factors Affecting Gestation Length
- Litter size: Larger litters may arrive slightly earlier
- Mother's age: First-time mothers may have slightly longer pregnancies
- Breed: Oriental breeds tend to have shorter gestations
- Overall health: Healthy cats have more predictable pregnancies
🍼 Newborn Kitten Care
Newborn kittens are completely dependent on their mother for the first few weeks. Here's what you need to know:
Development in the First Weeks
Birth - 1 Week
Blind and deaf. Weight: 3-4 oz (85-115g). Sleep 90% of the time. Nurse every 2-3 hours.
1-2 Weeks
Eyes begin opening (7-14 days). Ears open. Start to crawl.
2-4 Weeks
Baby teeth emerge. Begin walking. Weight doubles. Vision develops.
4-8 Weeks
Active play. Gradual weaning (4-6 weeks). Learn to use litter box.
Healthy Kitten Weights
| Age | Expected Weight | Daily Gain |
|---|---|---|
| Birth | 3-4 oz (85-115g) | - |
| 1 week | 5-7 oz (150-200g) | 0.35-0.5 oz (10-15g)/day |
| 2 weeks | 9-11 oz (250-300g) | 0.35-0.5 oz (10-15g)/day |
| 3 weeks | 12-14 oz (350-400g) | 0.35-0.5 oz (10-15g)/day |
| 4 weeks | 16-18 oz (450-500g) | 0.35-0.5 oz (10-15g)/day |
| 8 weeks | 28-32 oz (800-900g) | - |
⚠️ Signs of Problems in Kittens
- Not gaining weight or losing weight
- Crying excessively (hunger or cold)
- Rejected by mother
- Cold to the touch
- Not nursing within first 12 hours
- Diarrhea or vomiting
❌ Common Cat Pregnancy Myths
There are many myths about feline pregnancy. Let's debunk the most common ones:
"Cats should have one litter before spaying"
MYTH. There is no health benefit. Early spaying (before first heat) reduces mammary cancer risk by up to 91%.
"Cats can't get pregnant while nursing"
MYTH. Cats can go into heat and become pregnant again just 1-2 weeks after giving birth!
"The mother eats placentas because she's hungry"
MYTH. It's instinctive behavior for: extra nutrition, cleanliness, and hiding evidence from predators in the wild.
"All kittens have the same father"
MYTH. A single litter can have multiple fathers! This is called superfecundation and is common in cats.
"Cats always know how to care for kittens"
PARTIAL MYTH. First-time mothers may need guidance. Monitor closely for the first 48 hours.
"You shouldn't touch newborn kittens"
MYTH. Gentle handling helps with socialization. The mother won't reject kittens because of human scent.
✂️ Spaying After Birth
When to Spay After Birth?
Spaying is the most responsible way to prevent unwanted pregnancies and health problems. The ideal timing depends on several factors:
Timing Options
- Complete weaning (6-8 weeks): The most common and safe option
- 2-4 weeks after weaning: Recommended to ensure mammary recovery
- Before next heat: Important - cats can go into heat 2-4 weeks postpartum!
Benefits of Spaying
- Eliminates risk of ovarian and uterine cancer
- Dramatically reduces mammary cancer risk
- Prevents uterine infections (pyometra)
- Eliminates heat cycle behaviors
- Contributes to responsible population control
Consult your veterinarian to determine the best time to spay your cat. The surgery is safe, routine, and recovery typically takes only 7-10 days.
📚 Sources and References
- OmniCalculator - Cat Pregnancy Calculator
- Cats.com - Cat Pregnancy Guide
- Cornell Feline Health Center - Feline Reproduction Guide
- International Cat Care - Pregnancy and Birth in Cats
❓ People Also Ask
How long are cats pregnant?
Cats are pregnant for an average of 63-65 days (approximately 9 weeks), with a normal range of 58 to 71 days. Most cats give birth between days 63 and 67 after mating.
What are the first signs that my cat is pregnant?
The earliest signs appear around days 15-18: pink, swollen nipples ("pinking up"), possible morning sickness, behavioral changes (more affectionate or more withdrawn), and gradual increase in appetite.
How many kittens can a cat have?
The average litter size is 4-6 kittens, but it can range from 1 to 12. First-time mothers typically have smaller litters (2-3). Oriental breeds like Siamese tend to have larger litters.
Can a cat get pregnant again right after giving birth?
Yes! Cats can go into heat and become pregnant again just 1-4 weeks after giving birth, even while still nursing. This is why post-birth spaying is recommended as soon as safely possible.
When can an ultrasound detect pregnancy in cats?
Ultrasound can detect fetal heartbeats as early as days 15-21 of pregnancy. Kitten counting is more accurate after days 28-35. X-rays after day 40-45 allow for exact counting.
Is it normal for the cat to eat the placentas?
Yes, it's completely normal and instinctive. Placentas provide nutrients and hormones that help with milk production. In the wild, this also helps hide evidence of birth from predators.
📋 Frequently Asked Questions
Signs of imminent labor include: body temperature dropping to ~99°F (37.2°C) about 24 hours before, refusal of food, restlessness, seeking hiding spots, excessive licking of genitals, vocalization, and visible contractions. Clear vaginal discharge indicates labor has started.
Complete labor can last 2 to 24 hours. The interval between kittens ranges from 10 minutes to 1 hour. If your cat has strong contractions for more than 30 minutes without delivering a kitten, or if more than 4 hours pass between kittens, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Yes! This is called heteropaternal superfecundation and is relatively common in cats. Since female cats release multiple eggs during heat and can mate with several males, each kitten can potentially have a different father.
In most cases, do not intervene. Cats instinctively know what to do. Your role is to observe from a distance, ensure a calm environment, and be ready to call the vet if complications arise. Only intervene if the mother clearly cannot break the amniotic sac or sever the cord after several minutes.
Kittens begin to open their eyes between 7 and 14 days of age. Their vision will still be blurry initially and will develop fully over the following weeks. Never force the eyes open - this can cause permanent damage.
The ideal age for adoption is 8-12 weeks. By this age, kittens are fully weaned, socialized, have learned important behaviors from mother and siblings, and can receive their first vaccinations. Early separation can cause behavioral problems.
First, take the kitten to the vet to check for health problems (mothers can detect sick kittens). If the kitten is healthy, you may need to bottle-feed with kitten milk replacer every 2-3 hours. Keep it warm (86-90°F / 30-32°C) and stimulate elimination after each feeding.
Not recommended to vaccinate during pregnancy, especially with modified live vaccines, which can harm fetuses. If vaccination is absolutely necessary, the vet will assess the risk-benefit ratio. Ideally, cats should be up-to-date on vaccines BEFORE becoming pregnant.
Pseudopregnancy (false pregnancy) is less common in cats than dogs but can occur. The cat shows pregnancy symptoms (enlarged mammary glands, maternal behavior, weight gain) without being pregnant. It usually resolves on its own in 2-3 weeks, but consult a vet to confirm.
From week 4 onwards, gradually increase food quantity. From week 6, switch to kitten food (higher calories and protein). Divide into several small meals daily. During nursing, the cat may need up to 4x normal calorie intake. Always keep fresh water available.