Cat pregnancy at a glance
| Average pregnancy length | About 63–66 days (roughly 9 weeks) |
|---|---|
| First visible sign | “Pinking up” of the nipples around days 16–20 |
| Pregnancy confirmed by | Vet palpation from about day 17–18; ultrasound from about 3–4 weeks |
| Kitten count | X-ray from about 6 weeks |
| Sign birth is near | Stops eating the day before; rectal temperature below 100 °F (37.8 °C) means labour likely within a day |
| Length of labour | Most cats deliver the whole litter within about 6 hours |
Signs your cat is about to give birth
- She stops eating, often the day before labour.
- She scratches at or settles into a nesting spot and seems restless.
- Her rectal temperature drops below 100 °F (37.8 °C) — labour usually starts within the day.
Call your vet if she has strong contractions for more than 20 minutes without a kitten, or a kitten is visible but not delivered within about 10 minutes.
Frequently asked questions
How long are cats pregnant?
About 63–66 days, or roughly 9 weeks, counted from mating.
What is “pinking up”?
Around days 16–20 of pregnancy, a cat's nipples often turn pinker and become more noticeable. It is usually the first sign owners can see.
When can a vet confirm my cat is pregnant?
A vet may feel the kittens from about two and a half weeks, and an ultrasound can confirm pregnancy from about three to four weeks.
How long does a cat's labour last?
Most cats deliver all their kittens within about six hours, though some normally take a long rest between kittens. If she strains hard for more than 20 minutes without a kitten, call your vet.
Sources
- Merck Veterinary Manual – Whelping and Queening in Dogs and Cats
- PetMD – Cat Pregnancy: Signs, Stages, and Care (vet-reviewed)
Last reviewed November 2026. This calculator gives estimates for planning only and is not veterinary advice.