Feeding during a cat’s pregnancy and nursing

During a cat’s pregnancy its diet becomes especially important, not just for the mother but also for the health of the kittens. A healthy cat of normal weight is more likely to give birth to healthy kittens and produce enough milk for the needs of the kittens.

From this article you will find our instructions how to feed your cat during pregnancy and nursing.

A cat’s pregnancy: feeding a pregnant cat

A cat's pregnancy typically lasts about 57–67 days. Cats might lose a bit of weight during heat, but the weight usually returns to normal once the heat ends. As the pregnancy goes on, a cat will gradually gain weight and need more energy. That is why when feeding a pregnant cat, it is good start giving the mother cat high-energy food at least two weeks before it is due to give birth.

A cat's pregnancy may also include periods when the cat reduces its own eating. These dips in appetite are generally short-lived, but it is crucial to make sure the cat is still getting enough food. Read more how to enhance the cat’s appetite.

The cat's milk production can be weak if the diet during the cat’s pregnancy has been poor. Additionally, excessive thinness in a cat can lead to problems like miscarriages and might be connected to poor immunity in kittens.

Being overweight is not good either; it can increase the risk of miscarriages and complications during birth. When it comes to feeding a pregnant cat, it is advisable to pay attention at an ideal weight even before conception, as feeding should not be restricted during a cat’s pregnancy. Read PrimaCat's instructions for feeding and slimming down an obese cat.

Feeding a nursing cat

Give easily digestible, high-energy food:  After giving birth, a mother cat's weight usually drops by about 40% of its pregnancy weight. A nursing cat needs highly digestible, high-energy food, to make enough milk and avoid losing too much weight while nursing.

Weigh the kittens often: It is a good idea to weigh the kittens every day to make sure they are getting enough milk. They should be gaining 10–15 grams each day. However, if they are not putting on at least 7 grams daily, you might need to look into the mother cat's diet and possibly start giving the kittens some extra food. Things like poor appetite, not drinking enough, stress, and illness can all weaken milk production.

Make sure the mother cat gets enough water: Water is one of the most important nutrients for a nursing cat. Especially in the first few weeks after giving birth, the mother cat may not want to leave her kittens. That is why its water bowl should be as close to the mother cat as possible. Additionally, feeding the cat high-quality wet food, adding meat and water to its meals can help to keep the mother cat well hydrated.

Does it seem like the mother cat isn't drinking enough? Read more tips on how to improve your cat's water intake.

 Make sure that the mother cat eats a nutritious complete food and see our practical tips for feeding cats. 

What food for a pregnant cat and a nursing mother?

The food for a pregnant cat and a nursing mother cat should have at least 30% protein, based on dry matter, ideally more. Not getting enough protein during the cat’s pregnancy can make the kittens weigh less at birth and weaken their immune systems.

Wheat-free PrimaCat Chicken for kittens and nursing cats dry food is an excellent choice for both pregnant and nursing cats. It is packed with nutrients that support both the cat’s pregnancy and milk production, plus it has more energy than regular adult cat food. PrimaCat’s kitten food contains 36% protein and 18% fat. 

Kittens often like eating the same food their mother has been eating from the cat’s pregnancy to weaning, making it easier for them to switch to solid food they are already familiar with. Read more about how to feed kittens.

When the kittens first start to taste solid foods, offer them PrimaCat Classic Turkey in Gravy for kittenswet food. It has an appropriate fat content for a growing cat and added omega-3 fatty acids to support the development of the kitten's nervous system and vision. Also available in a Salmon in Gravy flavour.