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How long are cats pregnant for?
Cats are usually pregnant for about 63 days, or roughly nine weeks. By the time you notice your cat’s belly growing, she’s already well into her pregnancy. Luckily, there are other, earlier signs you can watch for if you suspect tiny paws are on the way.
Weeks 1 & 2: Barely any changes
During the first couple of weeks, you probably won’t notice anything different. Your cat will go about her usual routine, eating, playing, and napping as always. One subtle change is that her heat cycles will stop. That said, heat cycles often pause naturally in fall when breeding season ends, so this sign alone isn’t definitive.
Week 3: “Pinking up”
One of the earliest visible signs of pregnancy is called pinking. Around week three, your cat’s nipples become slightly larger, darker, and more prominent. This change can be surprisingly noticeable, especially in cats with light-colored fur.
Week 4: Morning sickness
Just like humans, pregnant cats can experience morning sickness. Despite the name, vomiting can happen at any time of day and the nausea may put your cat off her food. Make sure she continues to eat enough, and if you’re worried, don’t hesitate to call your vet for guidance.
Week 5: A rounder tummy
As the kittens begin to grow quickly, your cat’s belly may start to round out. An experienced vet might even be able to feel how many kittens are on the way, though an ultrasound is more reliable. Kittens usually won’t show clearly on an X-ray until around day 45, when their bones have started to develop properly.
Week 6: Hungry, hungry mom
By now, your cat will likely look noticeably rounder and feel much hungrier. She needs extra energy to support her growing kittens and to build reserves for nursing later. Feed her a balanced diet formulated for pregnant or nursing cats to keep both mom and babies healthy.
Week 7: Nesting begins
At seven weeks, the pregnancy is impossible to miss. Your cat may start displaying nesting behavior, searching for a quiet, safe, and cozy place to give birth. You can help by setting up a calm area with soft blankets, away from other pets and curious children.
Week 8: Extra grooming
In the final weeks, your cat may spend more time grooming, especially around her belly and nipples. She might even lick the fur away in those areas. This is perfectly normal and helps the kittens find the nipples more easily. The fur will grow back once nursing is over.
Week 9: Not long now
The kittens will arrive very soon. Mom may become extra affectionate, seeking comfort and reassurance from you. You might notice a small amount of reddish discharge, which is normal and a sign that labor is approaching. If there are still no kittens by the end of week ten, contact your vet for advice.
