- Cats are induced ovulators, meaning they ovulate in response to mating (induced by copulation).
- The estrus cycle is influenced by light and lasts about 14-21 days.
- During estrus (heat), the female cat is receptive to mating and exhibits various behaviors like calling (meowing), rolling, and increased affection.
2. Mating:
- Male cats, called tomcats, seek out females in estrus and may fight other males to establish dominance.
- During mating, the tomcat mounts and bites the scruff of the female's neck, which induces ovulation in the female.
- The actual copulation is brief, lasting only a few seconds.
3. Ovulation and Fertilization:
- After mating, ovulation occurs within 24-36 hours.
- The egg cells released by the ovaries are then fertilized by sperm present in the male's semen.
- Fertilization usually happens within the fallopian tubes.
4. Gestation Period:
- Once the egg is fertilized, it starts developing into an embryo and moves down the fallopian tube.
- The gestation period in cats is approximately 63-65 days (around 9 weeks) from conception.
5. Pregnancy and Birth:
- As the pregnancy advances, the female's body undergoes various changes to prepare for the litter.
- Her abdomen will enlarge, and her mammary glands will become prominent.
- Near the end of the gestation period, the female cat may exhibit nesting behavior by seeking a quiet and secluded spot to give birth.
- During labor, the female will give birth to a litter of kittens, usually ranging from 1 to 8 kittens.
- The mother will then care for the kittens by nursing them and teaching them how to survive and hunt.
Note:
- Spaying (ovary removal) or neutering (testicle removal) is commonly performed on pet cats to prevent unwanted reproduction and other associated behaviors.