Just like a human, pregnant cats have special needs, and as loving companions, we should be aware of them. Fortunately, most of them are common sense and similar to a human’s needs. But wait, you say. How will I know when my cat is pregnant? Signs include a cessation of her heat cycles, increased appetite, swollen nipples, and eventual wait gain. We encourage you to take your pregnant cat to the vet for a check up. Many people don’t, of course, and cats have been giving birth for thousands of years without vets, but Daily Paws errs on the side of caution.

Either way, you should start feeding your cat more food, and potentially add a vitamin supplement. Don’t let her get obese, but remember that she is eating for two. Or seven. As the pregnancy moves along, start switching her from adult food to kitten food, which has higher nutritional value.


If you have other cats or pets in the house, or small children, you will want to separate the mother-to-be, and give her a room of her own. Even without other pets, you need to prepare a birthing area. Most people use a laundry basket or cardboard box lined with blankets. This birthing area should be in a warm, quiet and safe place. Your cat may not end up giving birth in this nest, but at least set it up for her and introduce her to it as the pregnancy progresses. To increase the odds that she gives birth in her nest, rather than in your closet, or outside, consider confining her to the birth room as the due date draws nigh.

The actual birth is likely to happen while you are asleep, or at work, or otherwise gone. That’s OK. Even if you are in the house, the best thing you can do is let nature take its course. Don’t interfere, give the cat and the newborns some peace and quiet, and prepare to revel in the joys of a litter of cute kittenosity.

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We’ve tried to find the best sources we can for the information above, but don’t rely on us. Always consult a veterinarian, professional trainer or other expert.