Feeding a Pregnant Cat: Calories, Kitten Food and Weekly Changes
A cat's pregnancy lasts only about nine weeks, but it asks a great deal of her body. She must build several kittens from scratch while keeping herself healthy, then produce milk. Nutrition is the foundation. A well-fed mother has healthier kittens, an easier delivery and better milk.
Confirm the pregnancy
If you think your cat may be pregnant, see your vet. Signs include nipples turning pink and enlarged around week three, a rounded belly after week four or five, increased appetite and nesting behavior. Your vet can confirm by palpation, ultrasound or X-ray later in pregnancy, and can check for parasites and plan care. Pregnancy in an unspayed cat is common, and many owners are caught by surprise. If you are not planning kittens, talk to your vet about spaying. See when to spay or neuter a kitten.
Switch to kitten food
Pregnant and nursing queens need a diet similar to growing kittens: high in calories, protein, fat, calcium and other nutrients. The easiest way is to feed a complete and balanced food labeled for growth and reproduction, or for all life stages. Many owners switch to kitten food as soon as pregnancy is confirmed, mixing it gradually into her usual food over several days. See how to switch cat foods and cat food aafco statement explained.
How much to feed
During the first few weeks, her needs change little. From around week four, kittens grow quickly, and her appetite rises. As a guide:
- Weeks 1 to 3: feed her usual amount of the new diet.
- Weeks 4 to 6: increase gradually, as her weight rises.
- Weeks 7 to 9: she may need 25 to 50 percent more food than before pregnancy.
A healthy pregnant cat gains about 40 to 50 percent of her pre-pregnancy weight by the end. Weigh her weekly. If she gains too fast, trim slightly. If she loses weight, call the vet. See cat feeding chart by weight.
How often
As the uterus grows, her stomach has less room. Offer small meals four to six times a day, or leave dry kitten food available, with fresh wet food several times a day. Appetite may dip just before labor, which is normal. Always provide clean, fresh water. See how many times a day should a cat eat.
Protein, fat and key nutrients
- Protein supports fetal growth. See how much protein do cats need.
- Fat and calories supply energy.
- Calcium and phosphorus build bones and prepare for milk. Do not add calcium supplements unless advised, because too much before birth can cause problems.
- Taurine is critical for kitten development. See taurine: why cats need it.
- DHA supports brain development, and is present in many kitten foods.
- Folate and iron matter for blood.
What to avoid
- Raw diets. Bacteria and parasites pose a risk to the queen and kittens. See raw food diets for cats.
- Homemade diets that are not formulated for pregnancy. See homemade cat food safety.
- Over-supplementation, especially vitamin A and calcium.
- Sudden diet changes during late pregnancy.
- Medications and dewormers that your vet has not approved.
- Toxic foods. See cat poisoning: what to do.
Health care during pregnancy
Ask your vet about deworming with a pregnancy-safe product, flea control, and the timing of vaccines. Most vaccines are avoided in pregnancy unless the vet advises otherwise. Keep her indoors, in a calm environment. Prepare a quiet nesting box in a warm, draft-free place. See kitten supplies checklist.
Before labor
Appetite may drop in the last day or so, and she may seek a quiet place. A slight temperature drop often comes about twenty-four hours before labor. Contact your vet if she has a green or bloody discharge before the first kitten, strains for over an hour without producing a kitten, or seems unwell.
After birth
Her needs increase further once she begins nursing. See feeding a nursing cat. Keep offering kitten food, and plenty of water.
Keeping her comfortable
Pregnant cats often want quiet and routine. Keep meals at the same times, put food and water where she can reach them without jumping, and avoid handling her belly roughly. Brush her gently to reduce loose hair, and keep the litter box low-sided and spotless. A calm, warm room helps her eat well and lowers stress for the whole family.
When to see a vet
See a vet early in pregnancy, and straight away for vomiting, lethargy, discharge, loss of appetite or bleeding. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.
Frequently asked questions
What should I feed a pregnant cat?
A high-quality complete kitten or all-life-stages food.
When should I increase her food?
Gradually from about the fourth week, with the biggest increase in the last third of pregnancy.
Should I give supplements?
Usually not, if she eats a complete food, unless your vet recommends them.
How long is cat pregnancy?
About 63 to 65 days.
Sources and further reading
Pet food rules and nutrient standards come from regulators and professional bodies. Start here when you want the primary source.
- Cornell Feline Health CenterFeline health information from Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine.
- International Cat CareVeterinary-reviewed advice on feline health, behavior and welfare.
- WSAVA Global Nutrition GuidelinesHow to judge a pet food and the company that makes it.
Tailwisp is independent and written under our editorial policy. Learn who we are, or browse all cat guides.
This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every cat is different. If your cat is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.