I Just want to share notes to people who wants to breed their cats, this will help you guys to be a responsible breeder and owner.
Lesson 1: What to Expect From This Course (this lesson)
1. Mating in Cats
2. Is She Pregnant?
3. Care and Feeding of a Pregnant Cat
4. Delivery Day
5. Post-Natal Care of the Queen and her Newborns
6. Re-homing Kittens
Mating in Cats
During a cat's heat cycles, Queenie's entire focus will be on escaping the house to mate, or to mate with a male companion, if you are careless enough to have whole (unneutered) males in the same household. She will be single-minded in her need to mate, will loudly vocalize (call), and lurk near doors, just waiting for the chance to meet up with one or more of the noisy feline Romeos who will cluster near your house, fighting for the privilege of impregnating your queen.
The Mating Game
Like other cat advocates, I strongly urge that pet female cats be spayed as early as possible, for a number of reasons covered in other articles (see the sidebar for links). Once a female cat reaches puberty, she becomes a queen, and estrus - sometimes spelled "oestrus" (heat) - cycles will start. In domestic cats' heat cycles run generally from January through August, depending on location and climate.
Until she mates or is spayed, these estrus cycles will repeat as often as every two or three weeks, causing distress to both the queen and her human companions. During these cycles, Queenie's entire focus will be on escaping the house to mate, or to mate with a male companion, if you are careless enough to have whole male cats in the same household. She will be single-minded in her need to mate, will loudly vocalize (call), and lurk near doors, just waiting for the chance to meet up with one of the noisy feline Romeos who will cluster near your house, fighting for the privilege of impregnating your queen.
While it is assumed that most people have good intentions about spay/neuter, sometimes females mature earlier than anticipated, and the unwary caregiver will find herself with a female in heat. Here are answers to some questions you may have on what happens during oestrus, or if she indeed finds a mate:
What Happens During Estrus?
Estrus is described as the period of receptivity to mating, and is linked with the production of estrodial (a type of estrogen) produced by ovarian follicles. It is not to be confused with minstruation in human females, and you will rarely, if ever, see any signs of blood, although occasional mucous discharge may be evident.
Female cats are induced ovulators, which means that ovulation does not take place without mating or manual stimulation. If the female cat does not mate during estrus, hormonal levels will eventually drop off, and the estrus cycle will cease, until it repeats itself in another two to three weeks.
What Occurs During Mating?
The queen will signal her willingness to mate with a unique posture: head down, forelegs bent, rear quarters raised to expose the vulva ( this raised posture is called lordosis), with the tail raised and held to the side of the body, all designed to accomodate entry by the tom cat's penis. Her rear legs will tread rhythmically, as if walking in place.
The tom cat will mount the female from the rear, holding her on the back of the neck with his teeth. This biting behavior may in part be to ensure cooperation, but may also stimulate a part of the female's brain that induces ovulation.
Whole male cats have barbed penises (much like a fishhook), and upon withdrawal, the female cat will often scream (whether from ecstasy or pain is questionable). It is also believed that the barbed penis stimulates ovulation. In fact, breeders sometimes use "Teaser Toms" to stimulate ovulation and end the estrus cycle in queens which are not yet ready for breeding. Teaser Toms are neutered by vasectomy, leaving the barbs on the penis to stimulate ovulation.
How Soon After Mating Does Conception Occur?
Ovulation will usually occur within 20 to 50 hours after mating, and the eggs are viable (capable of being fertilized) for approximately one day. The eggs are fertilized in the oviduct, and then make their way to the uterus via the uterine horn, implanting in the uterine lining within 10 to 12 days.
Can a Litter Contain Kittens from Multiple Sires?
Yes. On the street, a queen may mate with two or more tom cats over the length of the estrus cycle - up to 21 days, with an average of seven days. Although genetics of the queen may come into play, multi-colored kitten litters will often vividly demonstrate multiple mating. Some breeders of pedigreed cats keep the queen and chosen tom together for multiple matings to ensure that pregnancy will result.
Can my Cat Become Pregnant While Nursing?
Unfortunately, yes. For that reason, it is critical to keep her indoors and separate from any whole mates in the house. Once the mother cat starts to wean the kittens, she should be spayed to prevent further litters. In addition, the kittens should be spayed/neutered, whether kept in the original home or placed for adoption.
At What Age Can a Cat Become Pregnant?
Although female cats generally mature sexually anywhere from five to twelve months, it is not unusual for a cat to start the estrus cycle as early as four months. If she is allowed to become pregnant at this age, the result will literally be a case of a kitten birthing kittens, dangerous to both the mother and the kittens. Many veterinarians are now practicing early spay and neuter to prevent tragedies of this sort.
If this article seems to be a thinly disguised spay and neuter message, it is intentional. Spaying your female cat will not only help the overpopulation problem, but will make her a happier and healthier pet in the long term.
Heat Cycles in Cats
Heat, Oestrus, Estrus
All of the above terms are correct in describing female cats' periods of receptiveness to mating, but I will refer to them as the more often-used "heat cycles."
The Breeding Season in Cats
The breeding season in cats is practically year-round, running as early as February, and as late as December, but in the western hemisphere, March through September is generally regarded as the breeding season.
Rescue people dread "Kitten Season" because it means that in kill shelters, the new crop of kittens will eliminate any chances of adoption for older cats, including last year's kittens. If for no other reason, this alone is ample justification for the spaying and neutering of pet cats.
Heat Cycles in Cats
Cats are referred to as "polyestrus," which means that they will go into heat cycles periodically during their fertile years. These heat cycles may start as early as the fourth or fifth month of a kitten's life, and will continue until she is either bred or spayed. Heat cycles in cats last from several days to two weeks or longer, and repeat every two to three weeks. You can see then, how a female cat may almost always seem to be in heat.
No one can say with any accuracy that heat cycles are painful to cats; however from the calling (loud yowling) and other symptoms they exhibit, it would appear that they are very uncomfortable. For detailed information on how to tell if a female cat is in heat, see this how-to article. If you still are not certain, watch this video of a young cat in heat.
Summation
Heat, oestrus, and estrus all refer to heat cycles in cats.
The breeding season in cats lasts almost year-round.
Heat cycles can start as early as four or five months in a female kitten.
Heat cycles in cats last from several days to two weeks or more
Heat cycles in cats repeat every two to three weeks until the cat is spayed or becomes pregnant.
Heat cycles may cause pain or discomfort in cats.
How To Tell if Your Female Cat is in Heat
Female cats that are not spayed will eventually come into heat (technically called oestrus), and the signs are unambiguous, once you know what to look for. Here are some behavioral symptoms to watch for if you suspect your diva is in heat.
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: Varies
Here's How:
Immediately preceding oestrus, your female cat may become unusually affectionate, by sidling up and rubbing her hind quarters against furniture, stuffed toys, other cats, and/or her favorite human.
She may spend excessive time licking her genital area. Note: Lacking the other behavioral traits on this list, genital licking can be a symptom of a urinary tract disorder, which can be serious if not treated promptly.
The Queen (name for female cats of breeding age) will vocalize loudly. This "calling" may go on for several days, unless she mates.
She will assume a mating position: head down, forelegs bent, rear quarters raised to expose the perineum (this raised posture is called lordosis), with the tail raised and held to the side of the body. Her rear legs will tread rhythmically, as if walking in place.
Queenie may also spray vertical surfaces with a strongly scented fluid. She will accomplish this by backing up to the surface and raising her tail high. The tail may quiver, and she may perform the rhythmic treading described in step four.
If your female cat does not mate, she will go into oestrus as often as every two to three weeks, for several months each year, until she either mates or is spayed.
Cat Mating & Pregnancy > Reproduction 101 > Is Your Cat in Heat?
Tips:
Unless she is a qualified pedigreed breeder, your female cat should be spayed. It will not only cease the uncomfortable heat cycles, but prevent certain serious medical problems.
Your veterinarian may be able to give your female cat hormones to stop the oestrus, if spaying is not immediately possible.
Female cats as young as four months can go into oestrus.
Care & Feeding of a Pregnant Cat
Whether you've adopted a pregnant stray, or your own cat has become pregnant, you'll want to provide all the things your pregnant cat needs, both for her health and for the health of the unborn kittens.
Veterinary Care
It is essential that a pregnant cat be given an examination by your veterinarian, both to determine her overall health, and, with a pregnant stray cat, for the protection of any other cats in your household, in the event she is carrying serious contagious diseases.
Should she be spayed?
Stray and feral cats often give their last ounces of energy to the developing kittens they bear, because of the lack of proper food, care, and veterinary attention. Whether or not your pregnant cat is a stray, your vet can determine the approximate stage of pregnancy and discuss with you the option of spaying to terminate the pregnancy.
Vaccinations
Generally, vaccinations are not recommended during pregnancy because of the possible risk of harm to the developing fetuses. You should discuss this aspect with your veterinarian and weigh the risks, especially if there are other cats in the household and the pregnant cat is a stray.
Food for a Pregnant Cat
Feeding Your Own Pregnant Cat
If your cat is already on a diet of quality canned cat food, it should be safe to continue feeding her the same brand she is accustomed to for awhile. However, during the last three to four weeks, she should be switched to a nutritious canned kitten food, and continue on that regimen until after the kittens are weaned. (The kittens will then be fed the same food as mom.) In the final week of her pregnancy, try a supplement of KMR (Kitten Milk Replacement (Compare Prices), which is readily available in most pet supply stores and many supermarkets.
Feeding a Pregnant Stray
A pregnant stray may be thin and undernourished. I'd advise immediately feeding her a premium kitten food to build up her strength and stamina, and to help the developing fetuses grow strong and healthy.
Pregnant Cats Need Calcium
Pregnancy (and subsequent nursing) causes a depletion in the amount of calcium in the bloodstream. This condition can result in eclampsia, a life-threatening disease. Although it more often occurs during nursing, it can occur during the last stages of pregnancy. A calcium supplement can help prevent this potential problem, particularly when caring for a pregnant stray cat.
In addition to quality food, make sure that fresh, clean water is available at all times. The best way to provide this essential is with an automatic water fountain.
Routine Care for a Pregnant Cat
Other than kitten food and KMR during the last trimester, for the most part, a pregnant cat needs the same good care you would give any other cat:
A Comfortable Place to Sleep
This can be anywhere from sharing your bed, to a cardboard box lined with a fluffy towel or blanket, to a comfortable commercial bed designed for cats.
A Litter Box and Quality Litter
As your pregnant cat's abdomen begins to enlarge, make sure her litter box is low enough for easier ingress and egress. Keep the box scrupulously clean to avoid possible infections from soiled litter. Refresh your knowledge of litter box cleaning techniques with this article on Litter Box Maintenance.
Scratching Post,Cat Toys, and a Cat Tree
Pregnant cats are just like other cats, in that they need the stretching activities they can get from a nice long scratching session, an interactive play session (take care not to tire her), and a nice spot from which to relax and view the world below.
Keep Your Pregnant Cat Indoors
This should go without saying, but if your cat became pregnant because of unlimited outdoor privileges, you really should train yourself and her to keep her inside. This is extremely important for her safety and your peace of mind.
When Birthing Time is at Hand
A few days before delivery, your pregnant cat will show signs of "nesting," e.g., searching for a quiet, private place to give birth to her kittens. Cats often choose closets for this purpose, and may be found sleeping on piles of clothes. Help her out by selecting a closet in a guest room, or an unused guest bathroom (easier to clean).
Move an extra litter box, food dish, and water bowl into the area you (and hopefully, your cat) have chosen. Provide a large cardboard box or laundry basket lined with clean towels (make sure it is low enough for her to enter.) She will usually readily move into the box and sleep there, to mark it with her scent for the expected kittens.
Other than keeping an eye out for potential problems, we've covered here all the things you'll need for the care of your pregnant cat.
Whether you've adopted a pregnant stray, or your own cat has become pregnant, you'll want to provide all the things your pregnant cat needs, both for her health and for the health of the unborn kittens.
Veterinary Care
It is essential that a pregnant cat be given an examination by your veterinarian, both to determine her overall health, and, with a pregnant stray cat, for the protection of any other cats in your household, in the event she is carrying serious contagious diseases.
Should she be spayed?
Stray and feral cats often give their last ounces of energy to the developing kittens they bear, because of the lack of proper food, care, and veterinary attention. Whether or not your pregnant cat is a stray, your vet can determine the approximate stage of pregnancy and discuss with you the option of spaying to terminate the pregnancy.
Vaccinations
Generally, vaccinations are not recommended during pregnancy because of the possible risk of harm to the developing fetuses. You should discuss this aspect with your veterinarian and weigh the risks, especially if there are other cats in the household and the pregnant cat is a stray.
Food for a Pregnant Cat
Feeding Your Own Pregnant Cat
If your cat is already on a diet of quality canned cat food, it should be safe to continue feeding her the same brand she is accustomed to for awhile. However, during the last three to four weeks, she should be switched to a nutritious canned kitten food, and continue on that regimen until after the kittens are weaned. (The kittens will then be fed the same food as mom.) In the final week of her pregnancy, try a supplement of KMR (Kitten Milk Replacement (Compare Prices), which is readily available in most pet supply stores and many supermarkets.
Feeding a Pregnant Stray
A pregnant stray may be thin and undernourished. I'd advise immediately feeding her a premium kitten food to build up her strength and stamina, and to help the developing fetuses grow strong and healthy.
Pregnant Cats Need Calcium
Pregnancy (and subsequent nursing) causes a depletion in the amount of calcium in the bloodstream. This condition can result in eclampsia, a life-threatening disease. Although it more often occurs during nursing, it can occur during the last stages of pregnancy. A calcium supplement can help prevent this potential problem, particularly when caring for a pregnant stray cat.
In addition to quality food, make sure that fresh, clean water is available at all times. The best way to provide this essential is with an automatic water fountain.
Routine Care for a Pregnant Cat
Other than kitten food and KMR during the last trimester, for the most part, a pregnant cat needs the same good care you would give any other cat:
A Comfortable Place to Sleep
This can be anywhere from sharing your bed, to a cardboard box lined with a fluffy towel or blanket, to a comfortable commercial bed designed for cats.
A Litter Box and Quality Litter
As your pregnant cat's abdomen begins to enlarge, make sure her litter box is low enough for easier ingress and egress. Keep the box scrupulously clean to avoid possible infections from soiled litter. Refresh your knowledge of litter box cleaning techniques with this article on Litter Box Maintenance.
Scratching Post,Cat Toys, and a Cat Tree
Pregnant cats are just like other cats, in that they need the stretching activities they can get from a nice long scratching session, an interactive play session (take care not to tire her), and a nice spot from which to relax and view the world below.
Keep Your Pregnant Cat Indoors
This should go without saying, but if your cat became pregnant because of unlimited outdoor privileges, you really should train yourself and her to keep her inside. This is extremely important for her safety and your peace of mind.
When Birthing Time is at Hand
A few days before delivery, your pregnant cat will show signs of "nesting," e.g., searching for a quiet, private place to give birth to her kittens. Cats often choose closets for this purpose, and may be found sleeping on piles of clothes. Help her out by selecting a closet in a guest room, or an unused guest bathroom (easier to clean).
Move an extra litter box, food dish, and water bowl into the area you (and hopefully, your cat) have chosen. Provide a large cardboard box or laundry basket lined with clean towels (make sure it is low enough for her to enter.) She will usually readily move into the box and sleep there, to mark it with her scent for the expected kittens.
Other than keeping an eye out for potential problems, we've covered here all the things you'll need for the care of your pregnant cat.
Potential Problems During Pregnancy
Cats may sometimes be prone to certain problems, either during pregnancy or after parturition. For this reason it is important to have at hand the phone number and location of the closest emergency veterinary clinic. (Everyone who has lived with cats for any length of time knows that they never get sick during normal clinic hours!)
In general, any unusual symptoms during gestation should be followed through with a call or visit to your veterinarian. This is an important part of the care of a pregnant cat.
Although many pregnant cats go through gestation trouble-free, there are potential problems that can occur. Learn to spot the specific symptoms of trouble and what action to take to ensure the health of a pregnant cat and her fetuses.The following are a few conditions to be aware of, so that you can spot the symptoms if they should occur, and take proper action.
Eclampsia
The depletion of calcium in the blood stream can result in eclampsia, a life-threatening disease, which sometimes can occur during the last stages of pregnancy. A calcium supplement can help prevent this potential problem, particularly when caring for a pregnant stray cat, whose previous diet was undoubtedly minimal.
Symptoms of Eclampsia
Behavioral Symptoms
Includes restlessness, pacing, panting, and irritibility.
Physical Symptoms
May include drooling, stiffness in gait,loss of coordination, and pain on walking, according to Race Foster, DVM, in an article for PetEducation.com.
Final stages of eclampsia include muscle spasms and seizure-like activity. Eclampsia is a veterinary emergency, and the cat should be seen immediately by a veterinarian at the first signs of symptoms.
Spontaneous Abortion
Poor health of the pregnant cat or certain infections may result in malformed fetuses, which will be aborted spontaneously. Symptoms include fever, bleeding from the vagina, inappetance, and depression. Aborted fetuses may or may not be found, as the queen may eat them.
All symptoms of abortion should be considered a veterinary emergency, and the pregnant cat should be seen immediately. She will need to be examined in case she retains any remaining fetuses, alive or dead.
Resorption
Resorption is an interesting phenomenon in which a dead fetus is completely absorbed by the queen's system. There are rarely any outward symptoms when resorption occurs, which leads to the "pregnant one day, no longer pregnant the next" mystery. However, when this phenomenon seems to have occurred, a veterinary visit is essential to insure that there are no remaining fetuses inside the queen.
Question: What should I feed my pregnant queen?
My pregnant cat is awfully thin. What can I feed her to fatten her up and ensure that her kittens develop well?
Answer: You are indeed right to be concerned about your queen's health and the health of her kittens. It's best to switch to a nourishing kitten food during the last trimester of her pregnancy (the last three or four weeks), or even earlier if she is not gaining weight. I would recommend a premium canned food, supplemented by dry food if she is still hungry. Be sure she gets plenty of water, and it wouldn't hurt for the last week or so to give her KMR (Kitten Milk Replacement), readily found in most pet food stores, to ensure a good milk supply for the kittens.
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She should continue eating the kitten food after giving birth, at least until the kittens are weaned. Nursing kittens are a tremendous drain on the queen's body, and I know you want to keep both her and her kittens healthy. See the sidebar for my top picks on canned and dry kitten foods.
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