Gestation Period

The most common gestation period of cats will last between 63 and 67 days but variations up to 71 have been noted. This is nothing to be alarmed about but it might be good to pay extra attention to the cat's behavior. The first unmistakable sign of prgnancy occurs about three weeks after mating. The nipples become quite pink and the surrounding hair recedes slightly. The kittens will grow from the size of hazelnuts to a body length of some 12 cm (5in) and a weight of 100 g (3 1/2 oz). The queen herself will usually put on one to 1 1/2 kg (2 to 3 lb). The exact amount will vary according to breed and the number of kittens she is carrying. Movements should be possible to feel from the seventh week.

In general no medication should be given during pregnancy and especially not live feline infectious enteritis vaccine or respiratory virus vaccine. Also dangerous are any steroid drug and the antibiotic griseofulvin, which is used against ringworm and is known to cause deformities. Abortion is extremely rare except where a queen has been infected with feline leukemia virus (FeLV) though there are other occasions when it may occur. Warning signs are bleeding from the vagina or smelly genital discharge. In any case, a consultation with your local vet might be a very wise idea. This way you can not only ask questions concerning possible signs or behavior but also make sure where to turn in case of necessary vet attention or emergency.

Mating

Birth

Mating

Birth

Mating

Birth

Mating

Birth

Mating

Birth

Mating

Birth

Mating

Birth

Mating

Birth

Mating

Birth

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