How to Get My Cat Ready for Labor

It can be stressful for a cat to give birth, especially if it's her first time. Your cat may seem restless or anxious 24 to 48 hours before labor. In addition, she may start panting, purring and displaying very affectionate behavior. As labor can be a scary thing for your cat it's important to make sure she is prepared.

Things You'll Need

  • Cat food
  • Water
  • Litter box
  • Scissors
  • Box
  • Newspaper
  • Towel(s)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Feed her high-quality cat food. A sign she is ready to go into labor is when she starts losing her appetite.

    • 2

      Feed her appropriate quantities. Do not overfeed or underfeed her. According to Pet Place, ̶0;Overfeeding or underfeeding at certain times during your cat's pregnancy can be detrimental to her as well as her developing kittens. When feeding the pregnant cat, people tend to overfeed early in pregnancy and not feed enough when the cat is nursing.̶1; Consult your veterinarian if you are unsure of how much to feed your pregnant cat.

    • 3

      Keep a close eye on your cat. Don̵7;t let her outside as she may try to find a nesting place outdoors. Your cat will be much safer if she̵7;s inside and away from outside dangers, such as hazardous weather, cars or other animals.

    • 4

      Cut the hair around the vulva area (below the tail) if you have a medium or long-haired cat. You can do this the week prior to birth. This will make delivery easier.

    • 5

      Choose a dark, secluded and quiet spot for your cat to use as a nesting/birthing location. It should be away from other pets and loud noises, it should also be easily accessible to the cat and you.

    • 6

      Prepare a box as a cat bed. Make sure the box is large enough for the cat to stretch and place newspaper in the bottom of the box. Put a clean, dry towel in the box for your cat to lie on.

    • 7

      Place food, water and her litter box in the birthing area at least 72 hours before your cat is ready to give birth.