Expert: Marcia Owen - 2/27/2008

Question
I got a cat today that is very pregnant.
She is a stray I took her in because I don't think she should have them outside.
I have had puppys before.
Anyway I am trying to tell how far along she is.
She has milk and is very big.
no discharge or anything but I need to know how long if possible.
I am taking her to the vet next week for a exam and such.
But if she has milk already how long.
She is fine with me but not my husband
So I can handle her fine

Answer
Hi Kat

Well done for bringing her inside as yes it would not be nice for her to rear them outside at all.

As to how long before she has them, its not easy to say as each cat is different.  Some may get their milk in 7-10 days before kittening, whereas some may not actually show until they are almost due to have them.  One of the best indicators is when she starts looking for somewhere to have them and starts nesting.

It may not be a bad idea to have her scanned a bit sooner than next week.

Marcia