
Pregnancy in Pets: What to Expect and How to Care for Your Expecting Pet
2
9
0

Pregnancy in pets can sometimes be planned, but it often comes as a big surprise to families. Dogs as young as 5 months old and cats as young as 4 months old can become pregnant! Dogs and cats can become pregnant when they are in heat, and families may not realize that their young pets are in heat since the first heat can have very subtle signs.
Understanding Heat Cycles in Dogs and Cats
Dogs go into heat every 6 months, while cats usually have seasonal heats. This means that during certain times of the year, cats will go into heat frequently every few weeks and then not at all during other seasons. This seasonal cycle ensures that cats give birth during the warmer months. The timing and frequency of a cat’s heat cycle vary based on the individual and their environment.
Pregnancy Duration and Detection
Dog pregnancies last around 63 days, while cat pregnancies last about 65 days. Early pregnancy can be diagnosed by veterinarians around 20 days after mating. Families often find out their pet is pregnant when the abdomen becomes rounder and nipples enlarge. Abdominal ultrasounds can detect kittens and puppies, and depending on litter size, veterinarians can palpate fetuses. Blood tests can also diagnose pregnancy.
Most veterinarians recommend an abdominal radiograph to see the fetuses' skeletons, which are visible at least 45 days after mating. These x-rays can show an approximate number of fetuses, helping families know how many puppies or kittens to expect. If you suspect your pet is pregnant, have them evaluated by a veterinarian. During this prenatal visit, your vet will recommend appropriate parasite prevention, deworming, and care. Usually, pregnant dogs and cats should not be vaccinated.
Nutrition and Care for Pregnant Pets
Pregnant pets should be offered high-quality food. Feeding pregnant dogs puppy diets and pregnant cats kitten diets ensures they get all the nutrients needed to give birth and breastfeed their babies. Providing a clean, quiet, safe, and comfortable area for them to birth and raise their offspring away from other pets is essential.
Tips for Caring for Pregnant Pets
Schedule a Veterinary Check-up: Visit your veterinarian to confirm the pregnancy and discuss specific care requirements for your pet.
Provide a Balanced Diet: Feed your pregnant pet a high-quality, balanced diet appropriate for her stage of pregnancy. Your vet can recommend a suitable diet or specific supplements.
Monitor Weight Gain: Keep an eye on your pet's weight gain throughout the pregnancy. Excessive weight gain or loss could indicate a problem, so consult your vet if you notice significant changes.
Keep Her Environment Calm: Create a quiet and stress-free environment for your pregnant pet. Minimize loud noises, sudden movements, and unnecessary disruptions.
Provide a Comfortable Nesting Area: Set up a comfortable and quiet nesting area for your pet to give birth and nurse her offspring. Provide clean bedding in a warm and secure location.
Increase Exercise Gradually: While exercise is essential, avoid strenuous activities during pregnancy. Provide regular, low-impact exercise and playtime to keep your pet healthy and maintain muscle tone.
Prevent Exposure to Toxins: Keep your pregnant pet away from harmful substances such as pesticides, chemicals, and toxic plants. Ensure she has access to clean water at all times.
By enrolling your furry friend in pet insurance, you can provide the best veterinary service for your pregnant pet and save money on vet bills. Visit www.kanguroseguro.com to learn more.