A cat's pregnancy, or gestation period, typically lasts about 63 to 65 days, which is roughly two months or about nine weeks. However, it can range from 60 up to 72 days in some cases
. Key points about cat pregnancy duration and signs:
- Average gestation is about 63–65 days, but some cats may carry kittens for as few as 60 days or as long as 72 days
- Pregnancy is usually divided into three roughly 20-day trimesters, with physical signs becoming more noticeable in the second and third trimesters
- Cats often do not show obvious signs of pregnancy until two to three weeks into the term, giving owners about a month to prepare
- Early signs include "pinking up" of the nipples around 16–20 days, increased appetite, and behavioral changes such as being calmer and more affectionate
- In the last trimester, the cat's belly enlarges, nipples swell, and she may start nesting behaviors to prepare for birth
Because cat pregnancies are relatively short, it can be challenging to determine exactly how far along a cat is without veterinary assistance, such as palpation, ultrasound, or X-rays
. In summary, expect a cat to be pregnant for about two months, with a typical range between 63 and 67 days, sometimes extending up to 72 days
