Females in Season

Felines usually come into heat about every 6 months, but this can vary with individuals and breeds. Since felines are induced ovulators (ovulation does not occur normally without breeding) their heat periods can be quite variable. If a female feline is not bred, her heat period can continue on for quite some time. Stress, change in the weather, etc. can induce ovulation, as can mechanical stimulation (needs to be done by a veterinarian). This is why some cats (especially Siamese, with their very vocal expression of being in season) can be difficult to be around.

Pregnancy

If the female is successfully bred, she will have a gestation period of from 62-65 days, during which fetal development will take place. Usually, within 24 hours of giving birth, the female will start what is called nesting behavior, where she looks for the best place to deliver her litter. Also during this time, her temperature usually drops at least a full degree from normal. (Normal body temperature is 100.5 and 101.5 degrees)

Kitten Delivery

Once labor begins the kittens are usually delivered pretty quickly; however problems can occur. If the female is in labor and more than two hours of active labor passes without a kitten, she should be seen. If she has had one or more kittens and is in active labor longer than two hours without delivering another kitten, she needs to be seen. Once you are sure she has delivered all her kittens, she should be examined to make sure she has delivered all her kittens and receive a clean out injection to make sure all the placentas are passed. During delivery, try to avoid letting the mother eat all the placentas. While eating one or two can be good for her, eating all of them might cause GI upsets.

False Pregnancy

Pseudocyesis or false pregnancy can occur. Since it can take about two months for some females to completely end the hormones involved with the heat period, some non-pregnant females may show signs of being pregnant. I have even seen some go into labor. This can be confusing and may require x-rays to make sure a pregnancy actually exists.