How can I help her?

Question
Hi
I have a 13month old indoor cat. About 4 weeks ago I took her to visit my
parents and she was let out. She never goes outside so I was distraught when she
was gone a whole day and night. Within the last few weeks I've noticed that
she's different. She's a loving cat anyway but recently she's been following me
around the house, "talking" to me more often and grooming our other cat and
being very loving towards her, she seems to be getting a bit podgy this last
week.
I don't know if I'm being paranoid but I think she may be pregnant. This isn't
an issue as I'm quite happy and prepared to help in any way that needs be. The
thing is she is a very small cat for her age and I'm worried that she may
struggle giving birth. Is there any supplements or similar that I can give her
that will help her? or anything that I can do to ensure that she's okay?

Thank you"


Answer
Jane,

At 13 months, most female cats are ready to have kittens.  Unfortunately, there is not much good written on the subject.  The best way to find out if she is really pregnant is to see a vet.  They can palpate, do an ultrasound and/or take X-rays.  This way you can know for sure.  

The gestattion period for a cat is approximately 63-69 days.  We like to begin counting the seond day after breeding has begun. So, at 4 weeks, she is almost half way there (if she is pregnant). At 3 weeks, her nipples should get very pink and protrude a bit more than usual.  This only lasts a couple of days, so one has to be right there to check.  By now, she should be gaining some weight and eating enough for herself and her kittens (if she is pregnant).

About a week before birth, she should begin producing milk, although I have seen them where the milk does not seem to come in until birth.

The best book I have seen on the subject is a book called: "My Cat's in Love" by Frank Manolson, St Martins Press, 1970  It is out of print, but still available on the web.

If she is not pregnant, you might consider having her spayed.  If she is, after the kittens are weaned, you might consider having her spayed, then.

Best regards... Norm.