Caring for a Pregnant Cat: Ensuring a Healthy Queening Experience

Specialized care is required to ensure the health and well-being of a pregnant cat (also called a "queen") and her growing fetuses. Taking care of the queen's nutritional, environmental, and health care needs is essential for uneventful gestation and childbirth.    

Nutrition

During pregnancy, a cat's caloric needs increase significantly, rising by up to 40% by the end of gestation. A diet rich in high-quality protein is essential to support tissue growth and fetal development. A balanced nutritional formula should provide essential proteins along with taurine, an important amino acid that promotes normal fetal growth and prevents complications such as stillbirths or congenital abnormalities.

In addition to proteins, omega-3 fatty acids play a crucial role in the development of the brain and eyes. These essential fatty acids are said to support optimal fetal growth and development.

Foods specially formulated for pregnant cats are available. Switching over to such foods will help ensure that the queen receives complete and balanced nutrition.

Environmental Considerations

Beyond nutrition, providing a comfortable and stress-free environment is essential for a healthy pregnancy. The queen would require a quiet, warm, and safe space to rest and nest. Ensuring proper temperature and humidity level and maintaining good hygiene practices are important.

Veterinary Care

Regular veterinary check-ups are vital to monitor the health of both the queen and her fetuses. Generally, a veterinarian recommends:

• Periodic ultrasound scans beginning with an initial scan to confirm pregnancy and then to monitor fetal development.
• Blood tests to check for gestational diabetes and other complications.
• Parasite prevention and control measures.

Additionally, it is recommended to avoid vaccinations during pregnancy. Hence, the core vaccinations must be completed before they mate.

Upon consultation, the veterinarian will provide personalized guidance on nutrition and care.

Good to Know

Health Benefits of Gokshura in Dogs and Cats

Gokshura is a common weed that is found in pasture lands, roadsides, and other wastelands of hot, dry, and sandy regions across the globe. Gokshura is used for various therapeutic purposes because of its wide range of pharmacologic actions. Traditionally, Gokshura has been extensively used as a digestive tonic, as well as in the treatment of general debility, fevers, wounds, and other illnesses. Gokshura helps increase the absorption of vital nutrients and improve digestion by stimulating the release of digestive juices. The herb provides relief from irritable bowel syndrome and abdominal pain.

Pet care products that contain Gokshura promote proper assimilation of food. Gokshura is one of the key ingredients of Digyton drops, which is a digestive tonic for cats and dogs. It is also a key ingredient of Healthy Treats for Dogs and Healthy CAT Food, to support kidney health.