Instructions
Look to see if the cat's nipples are swollen. This indicates pregnancy and usually occurs after the third week of pregnancy. As the pregnancy progresses, the color of the nipples changes from white to pink.
Look at the stomach or belly. Around the fifth week of pregnancy the cat's belly begins to grow large and plump.
Watch for restlessness in a cat. About one or two days before the cat goes into labor, it will be become anxious. It also looks for places to have the litter, usually a dark and quiet area.
Wait for the stray cat to start licking its belly and vagina frequently. This indicates that labor is about to start. If you want the stray cat to give birth in your home, restrict it to one room that is darkened and quiet so it can deliver the litter. Place food, water and cat litter in the room.
Look for a vaginal discharge. This indicates the cat is about to give birth. But you may miss this indicator because cats quickly lick up this discharge.
Listen to the cat's breathing. Many cats breathe at a faster rate when about to give birth. Other cats yowl loudly during labor. Another sign of impending labor is pacing.
Watch the cat's position. Many cats lay on their sides and squat and press downward to push out the kittens.
How to Tell When a Stray Cat Is Going to Have Kittens
According to the ASPCA, a stray cat is someone's pet that is lost or abandoned. Stray cats differ from feral cats, which are cats that are born and live in the wild. When a person comes upon a stray cat there are indicators that she is pregnant or is about to give birth. The gestation period for cats is nine to ten weeks and after week three there are visible signs of pregnancy. By paying attention to a stray cat you can tell if she is going to have kittens.