The Birth of Kittens I

After many months of nurturing, bonding and the various breeding phases it will finally be time for a queen to give birth. Estimated around 68 days after pregnancy, the queen would have already confined herself in her nesting space. Whether this is a cardboard box or designated kittening space, she will not leave this area during her last days of pregnancy. Birthing of kittens is one of the proudest and exciting moment for a breeder but does not mark the end of the journey. The birthing process is intensive and somewhat stressful to a mother. Once a queen has selected her area of confinement, this should be well padded and cleaned regularly by the carer. Disinfecting the area and keeping it safe is essential prior to the birthing moment.

Approximately a day before birth, there will be clear signs of labour approaching and this is often referred to as the very first phase of the labour mode. Though this may appear subtle in some cases and a little hard to gauge simply from observation, attention to the abdomen and breathing of the cat will indicate abnormal activity.