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Enter the breeding / mating date to estimate due dates and key points in pregnancy for dogs or cats.
Whether you're breeding intentionally or dealing with an unexpected pregnancy, understanding the timeline and stages of pet pregnancy helps you provide better care for the mother and prepare for the new arrivals.
Dogs and cats have similar gestation periods of approximately 63 days, but there are important differences in care, signs, and what to expect.
Fertilization and early cell division. No visible signs. Continue normal feeding and activity.
Embryos implant in uterus. Some dogs show mild morning sickness or decreased appetite. Avoid rough play and medications.
Embryos develop into fetuses. Vet can confirm pregnancy by palpation (around day 28) or ultrasound (as early as day 21). Morning sickness may continue.
Fetuses develop rapidly. Mother's belly begins to enlarge. Increase food by 25-50%. Begin whelping preparations.
X-rays can count puppies after day 45. Mother's appetite may decrease as stomach is compressed. Switch to puppy food. Set up whelping box.
Puppies can arrive any time. Watch for temperature drop (below 99Β°F indicates labor within 24 hours). Monitor for nesting behavior.
Similar to dogs, but queens (female cats) may show these additional signs:
Call your vet immediately if:
The first few weeks are critical:
No. This is an estimate based on average gestation length from breeding date. Actual delivery can vary by several days. Your vet may use ultrasound or x-ray for more accurate timing. Always follow your veterinarian's guidance.
Ultrasound can confirm pregnancy as early as 21-25 days after breeding. Palpation (feeling the abdomen) is possible around day 28-30 but should only be done by a vet. X-rays after day 45 can count the number of babies.
Yes. Schedule at least two visits: one at 3-4 weeks to confirm pregnancy and assess health, and another at 7-8 weeks to count babies (x-ray) and discuss birth preparations. More visits may be needed for high-risk pregnancies.
Yes, spaying during pregnancy is possible but carries additional risks. Discuss options with your vet early. The procedure becomes more complex and expensive as pregnancy progresses.
Signs include: nesting behavior, decreased appetite, restlessness, temperature drop below 99Β°F (check twice daily near due date), panting, and visible contractions. First-stage labor can last 6-12 hours before active pushing begins.
Usually, pets deliver without help. However, you may need to: clear membranes from faces, cut umbilical cords if mother doesn't, and keep area clean. Don't pull on stuck babiesβcall your vet. Be present but minimize interference unless problems arise.
Varies widely by breed and size. Small dogs: 1-4; medium dogs: 4-8; large dogs: 8-12+. Cats typically have 4-6 kittens. X-rays after day 45 give accurate counts. Knowing the count helps you recognize if birth is complete.
Not before 8 weeks minimum; 10-12 weeks is better for behavioral development. Early separation causes problems with socialization, bite inhibition, and anxiety. Some breeders keep puppies until 12 weeks.