When Is My Cat Ready To Have Kittens?

by Marcy
(Bradenton, FL)

Question:
What are the usual signs that the cat is about to have kittens? My princess is a little over a year old and tiny in size, then we adopted a new kitten. He ended up being a tom cat and was only about 7 months old when he got her pregnant. She was an anti-social cat and has become overly affectionate. I'm not sure when she got pregnant and I'm worried about her having her kittens when I'm at work. Can you tell me what to look for when she is getting close to having them? Should I buy her a kennel to put her in during the day while I'm gone?

Answer:
Drop of body temperature, restless behavior and milk production from her nipples are the usual signs birth is imminent. Most people notice the change in behavior first. Of course you could try to be at home when you notice she's behaving differently, but even then it could still take several hours before the first kitten arrives. Do not put her in a kennel though. Let her walk around (indoors). Cats should feel free when giving birth. This page tells you all about birth - recommended!