Cat-Care 
Preparing for a litter can be exciting and a little mysterious. This guide helps you understand how big a pregnant cat may get in the final weeks, what belly circumference and weight changes really mean, and what practical steps to take as a new owner. It’s a quick primer with clear actions and limits, not a substitute for veterinary care.
One sentence answer Short answer: a pregnant cat will show noticeable belly expansion in the last 2–3 weeks and often gains 10–30% body weight depending on litter size and pre-pregnancy condition.
Core principles
- Monitor belly circumference weekly with a soft tape; for a pregnant cat steady, gradual growth is normal.
- Prioritize behavior, appetite, and mobility over single measurements; sudden changes need prompt review.
- Provide balanced nutrition for a pregnant cat and discuss feeding adjustments with your clinic; avoid overfeeding treats.
- Create a quiet, clean nesting area and reduce high jumps or stressful interactions in late gestation.
New owner 14 day checklist Day -14 to -7: Observe and prepare
- Start simple records: baseline weight, meal size, stool, and general behavior once daily.
- Measure belly circumference at the widest point with a soft tape and note the number and date.
- Place a low, clean nesting box in a quiet indoor area. If you have a pregnant cat, get familiar with how she rests and where she prefers to hide.
Day -7 to -3: Adjust environment
- Move food and water to a calm spot away from the litter area; keep frequency and portions consistent.
- Secure screens, block high surfaces where falls could happen, and reduce vigorous play.
- If you care for a pregnant cat, begin offering pregnancy-formulated food if recommended, and avoid sudden diet changes.
Day -3 to 0: Final preparations
- Pack a simple birthing bag: towels, clean scissors, gloves, phone numbers, and a carrier.
- Confirm your vet or emergency clinic availability and the fastest route.
- For a pregnant cat, keep routines calm, limit visitors, and monitor for nesting restlessness or contractions.
Record keeping and red flags
- Increase logging to twice daily in the last three days: weight, belly circumference, appetite, stool, and activity.
- Any drop in movement, green or bloody discharge, or breathing difficulty requires immediate veterinary contact.
Common mistakes and fixes
- Measuring inconsistently → Use the same tape, same spot, same position each time.
- Waiting on appetite changes → Track meals; early contact prevents escalation.
- Letting visitors handle → Keep nesting private; reduce stress for the pregnant cat.
- Skipping records → Keep a simple log for weight, belly, and behavior.
When to consult a vet Contact your veterinarian immediately for severe lethargy, refusal to eat >24 hours, vomiting or diarrhea >24 hours, heavy bleeding, obvious pain, sudden collapse, breathing trouble, visible injury, or if kittens are overdue by more than 48 hours past expected delivery date.
Disclaimer This is general information and not medical advice; consult a veterinarian for any concerns.