This article is not only for cat lovers. Even if you don’t like cats, this will be important to anyone who thinks it’s humane to treat an animal. Pregnancy is a difficult time for a cat. So helping a pregnant cat is a very kind thing that we can do as a good human.
How do we know if a cat is pregnant?
One may ask what a stupid question this is. Don’t you know that the cat is pregnant when her belly is big? But you can’t say that. The reason for that is that a cat’s belly gets big after a while after being pregnant. But we can see two main things during the first period when a cat is pregnant. The first external symptom is that the cat’s nipples are enlarged and dark red. A clear difference can be seen in the cat’s nipples as they prepare to give milk to the kittens.
The second thing is the behavior of the cat. Sometimes cats that used to be very friendly can quickly become angry when they become pregnant. Or it can always try to hide somewhere. Sometimes it can show a behavior that doesn’t care about us. Also, when a cat who used to ignore us, can try to behave in a way that loves us and makes us feel loved after get pregnant.
What about the food of a pregnant cat?
You can see that a pregnant cat eats more food than usual. Because cats need more calories during pregnancy. Also, a cat who eats cat food regularly may get bored of cat food. Although fish is a favorite food of cats, cats may not eat it during pregnancy. Therefore, the best thing is to observe the cat’s eating pattern and try to give her different foods to eat. Then you will know what the cat can eat.
Does the pregnant cat Need a separate place to relax?
Often, when a cat is raised at home, separate places are not made for it. Cats like to stay on a table or a chair at home. But pregnant cats sometimes prefer to stay close to us. For example, a pregnant cat may want to sit on the desk or under the desk where we are working. It would be nice if we could be allowed. If it is difficult to do so, make a comfortable place for the pregnant cat to rest.
Be aware of discomforts.
Cats are very flexible and like to hunt. This innate behavior of cats does not change just because they are pregnant. But as the delivery approaches, it is difficult for them to be active as usual due to the big belly and other physical problems. For example, a cat that jumps out of the window easily before becoming pregnant may find it difficult to do such a thing during pregnancy. Therefore, we need to pay attention to the needs of the cat to go out and come in during pregnancy.
Veterinary advice.
Generally, in many houses, a cat is not taken to a vet because she is pregnant. But it would be good if you could do it. Then the vet can check if everything is normal. Especially for a young cat, the first pregnancy can be quite difficult. Sometimes it can be life-threatening. If there is such a risk, it is essential to see a veterinarian. Also, if necessary, the vet may recommend vitamins or other nutritional supplements for the cat.
A place to give birth.
As the delivery approaches, the cat needs a special place for it. We can know that when the cat starts walking around and looking for some hidden places. Then one thing we can do is to take a cardboard box with enough space and put a thick piece of cloth under it. Place the cardboard box in a place where it will not be disturbed. There is another important thing. Other predators may come to eat the kittens. So, keep the cardboard box in a safe place. It is better if it can be kept inside the house.
In addition, there is something that must be given to a pregnant cat. That is love, care, and kindness. It is very important.
