pregnancy

dtolle

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Hello everyone. I have a couple of questions regarding my pregnant cat. First of all, I'd like to know how long after she has the kittens will she go into heat again? And I'd like to know some of the early signs of labor.
Here is the situation: We bought a cat from a pet store, who failed to tell me she was pregnant! But I do know that she had just had kittens when she was brought to the pet store, so this is her second pregnancy in not a very long time. I am trying to figure out when she got pregnant so I can try to estimate her due date. Any info would be great. Thanks!!
 

sandie

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There really is no way to tell when she got pregnant unless you know when she was exposed to a whole male. You said her nipples were enlarged when you got her. The nipples start to pinken and enlarge at about 3 weeks after the mating. The only way to tell for sure is to take her to a vet for an exam. Pregnancy only lasts about 62 days. Females can go into heat a week after giving birth. When she is ready you will notice a decrease in her eating and more laying around. Right before hand she may meow some and breat a little irregular. Then when it's time you will see the contractions. I would keep a close eye on her though. Having a litter this close, is very hard on mom. She may be too tired and not want to do everything herself.
 
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dtolle

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Thank you for the response. She has an appt on Tues with the vet. It appears that she is about to deliver ( I have a friend who is very familiar with kittys and says she is definitly ready ), so I just hope she holds off until I can get her to the vet next week!! I tried calling the pet shop to find out anything I could and the owner said she did indeed have a litter a couple of months ago, and he also stated that she was in a cage w/ a male for two weeks!! Part of me is very frustrated that they sold me a cat when they knew she could be pregnant, but part of me is excited. My children ( ages 5 and 2 ) I think will really enjoy the kittens and it will be a great learning experience!!
 

sandie

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Just please be careful with the kids. When cats are giving birth and have young kittens they can get very protective. You havn't had her very long. If the kids are around and making a fuss, she may hold off on the delivery. Also, if they are making her nervous she may keep moving them and possibly harm or kill one. I would for right now, put her into one room and keep the door closed. Make a queening box for her to deliver in. A box lined with a towel that is low enough for her to get out of but not the kittens. A mother with kittens will need some peace and quiet so all goes smooth. It is also helpful when the babies need to learn to use the litter box. Too much freedom spells accidents all over the house. Hopefully she makes it to the vet, but if not just keep an eye on her.
 
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dtolle

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I figured she'd want space, so we set up the box in the basement, which is where she goes for a better part of the day. She has been in the box, and I believe she knows that is where she should deliver. As far as my kids, I've explained that they have to leave her alone, and once she goes into labor I intend to close the cellar door so nobody will bother her. I can still keep an eye on her, but the kids won't be bugging her. I just pray it all goes well. I have had one other experience of a delivery about 6 years ago, but I forget almost everything!!!
 
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dtolle

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I figured she'd want space, so we set up the box in the basement, which is where she goes for a better part of the day. She has been in the box, and I believe she knows that is where she should deliver. As far as my kids, I've explained that they have to leave her alone, and once she goes into labor I intend to close the cellar door so nobody will bother her. I can still keep an eye on her, but the kids won't be bugging her. I just pray it all goes well. I have had one other experience of a delivery about 6 years ago, but I forget almost everything!!!
 
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