Cat Due Date Calculator

How to Calculate Your Cat’s Due Date

Calculating your cat’s due date is straightforward when you know the mating date. The average feline gestation period is 63-65 days, though it can range from 58-72 days depending on various factors such as breed, litter size, and individual variation.

Our calculator provides both the average expected date and the full range of possible delivery dates. This helps you prepare adequately whilst recognising that nature isn’t always precise to the day.

Cat Pregnancy Stages

First Trimester (Days 1-21)

During the first three weeks, physical changes are minimal and often undetectable at home. Your cat may show subtle behavioural changes such as increased affection or slight appetite changes. The embryos are developing rapidly, but the pregnancy won’t be visibly obvious yet.

Second Trimester (Days 22-42)

This period brings more noticeable changes. Around day 16-20, you’ll observe “pinking up” – the nipples become pinker, larger, and more prominent. Your cat’s appetite typically increases, and she may become calmer and more affectionate. A veterinary ultrasound can confirm pregnancy from around day 21-28.

Third Trimester (Days 43-65)

The final stage shows dramatic physical changes. Your cat’s belly becomes noticeably enlarged, and you may feel or see kitten movement. Her mammary glands swell significantly, and she’ll begin nesting behaviours, seeking quiet, secure spots for delivery. Appetite may fluctuate as the kittens take up more space.

Signs of Approaching Labour

As your cat approaches her due date, watch for these key indicators:

• Temperature Drop: Body temperature falls below 38°C (100°F) approximately 24 hours before labour
• Behavioural Changes: Restlessness, increased vocalisation, and intensive grooming of the genital area
• Nesting Behaviour: Active searching for and preparing a birthing location
• Loss of Appetite: Most cats stop eating 12-24 hours before labour begins
• Discharge: Clear or slightly pink vaginal discharge may appear

Preparing for Your Cat’s Delivery

Creating a Birthing Area

Set up a quiet, warm space away from household traffic. A large cardboard box with clean towels or blankets works well. The sides should be low enough for easy access but high enough to contain newborn kittens. Place this in a dimly lit, peaceful location.

Essential Supplies

• Clean towels and blankets
• Heating pad or heat lamp (set on low)
• Emergency contact details for your veterinarian
• Kitchen scales for weighing kittens
• Kitten milk replacer (in case of emergency)

Post-Birth Care Considerations

After successful delivery, monitor both mother and kittens closely. The mother should begin nursing within a few hours, and kittens should be active and seeking milk. Weigh kittens daily to track healthy weight gain. Keep the area warm, as newborn kittens cannot regulate their body temperature.

Schedule a veterinary check within 24-48 hours of birth to confirm all placentas were delivered and assess the health of mother and babies. Discuss spaying timeline if you don’t plan future breeding, as cats can become pregnant again within weeks of giving birth.

Frequently Asked Questions