The average litter size for cats is 4 to 6 kittens; however, adolescents, seniors, and first-timers typically have smaller-than-average litters. First-time moms usually only have 2 or 3 kittens. Purebred cats tend to have more kittens per litter than mixed breeds, though experts aren't sure why.
A healthy cat's gestational period lasts roughly 63–65 days, and queens may have an estrus cycle within four weeks of giving birth — even if they're still nursing. A healthy queen can potentially give birth to three litters per year, each containing up to 12 kittens.
Generally, it's pretty uncommon for cats to have just one kitten, but it's nothing to be concerned about if it happens to your cat. We say this because, usually, a cat owner expects more than one litter to come out instead of one.
Experts say that the mother's age and health, as well as both parents' genetic histories, influence the size of the litter. For example, a young or first-time queen typically produces a smaller litter of up to three kittens.
Taking home just one kitten may seem like a good idea—but a lonely kitten can be a real “cat-tastrophe” for felines and humans alike. Single Kitten Syndrome is the reason that, like many other organizations, we ask for kittens under 6 months to go home in pairs.
I hear people often say that they think it will be easier to start with one kitten and then, later on, adopt another. I can see the logic - getting two might seem like rushing into a bigger commitment but really, it's not much different. In fact - bringing in a second kitten later will likely be a much harder process.
Vets recommend not touching kittens unless you have to while their eyes are still closed. You can check on them to make sure they're healthy and gaining weight, but try to limit direct physical contact. The kitten's mother will also let you know how comfortable she is with you handling her babies.
Overall, pre-weaning mortality is commonly 15-30%, and stillbirths typically account for <10% of all kittens born; although, the prevalence can vary considerably; from 6-22% in pedigree cats.
In cats the average length of full parturition (delivery) is 16 hours, with a range of 4–42 hours (up to three days in some cases may be normal). It is important to consider this variability before intervening.
How long does pregnancy last in the cat and what are the signs? After the female cat becomes pregnant, her body slowly changes over the next 63 days as the fetuses grow.
If your cat has had stillborn kittens, take them to the vet. Your vet will want to run tests on your cat to ensure she doesn't have a viral or bacterial infection that could affect the rest of the litter. Your vet will also want to examine the living kittens to ensure they're healthy.
Single kitten syndrome is the idea that young kittens, when raised with other young kittens and cats and then adopted into a home by themselves, can become aggressive, anxious, stressed, and even develop behavioral issues like inappropriate chewing/scratching and inappropriately using the litterbox.
Whether or not you intend to put your kittens up for adoption or keep them, you want to socialize the newborns. The Nest suggests gently handling your kittens one at a time starting once they've reached their first week of age, letting mama kitty sniff you first if she's present.
She will generally come back in to season approximately 8 weeks after the birth of the kittens (with a range of 1-21 weeks)[1]. This usually coincides with the time the kittens are weaned.
Time between delivery of kittens is usually 10 to 60 minutes and stages two and three are repeated. The birth is usually complete within six hours after the start of the second stage, but can last up to 12 hours.
Most cats would prefer to be left alone, and they definitely don't want to be pet or touched while they are giving birth. It's best to give your pregnant cat as much privacy as possible while also leaving yourself the ability to monitor the birthing process for any signs of issues or distress.
Pregnancy and giving birth can be a frightening, confusing and painful experience for both you and your cat.
After giving birth, your cat is likely to be very hungry, tired and need to rest. She will need to stay with her kittens to feed and bond with them. Make sure they are in a quiet space, free from noise and disturbance.
Hypoxia (lack of oxygen), trauma, hypothermia – kittens born after difficult birthing (dystocia) have a higher risk of death and this may be the most significant cause of early deaths. This results from lack of oxygen (hypoxia) and/or trauma.
Second and third stages of labour are repeated as each kitten is born. Intervals between kittens are variable, from as little as 10 minutes to up to an hour in the average case. While cats usually have an average of four kittens in each litter, this can range from one to 12 kittens.
It is a common misconception that a mother cat will not care for her kittens if they are touched, but don't worry she doesn't mind. However, don't be surprised if they're moved the next time you check on them! If you find neonatal kittens the best thing to do is leave them alone!
As such, at any point in time, a cat's mouth may be no dirtier than ours. However, cats contain certain other bacteria in their mouths, which cause gum disease. As predators, they also eat animals and insects that may harbor diseases. To be safe, avoid kissing your cat on the lips.
Kittens may get the water they need form wet food such as Whiskas® wet pouches, but they still need fresh drinking water. Water aids their body processes and helps them avoid potential problems with their kidneys. Your kitten's tongue is sensitive to both temperature and taste.