How To Build A Nesting Box For Your Pregnant Cat
In the final week of your cat's pregnancy, you will be able to see her displaying an important behavior - nesting behavior. Although she may be the most pampered cat ever, she will still think that she is living in the wild and will feel compelled to search out a birthing place that is safe,warm and secure.
In the middle of your bed is often her first choice!
As you may be called upon to lend a helping hand during the birth, it is wise to exercise some influence over your cat's choice of nesting area. As long as your pet feels that she is in control of her surroundings and you have good access to keep the nest clean or offer help, she will be happy.
To build a desirable nest, find a cardboard box that is roomy enough for her to move around in to give birth and to have her newborn kittens close to her whilst she delivers subsequent ones.
Following the birth, there will need to be enough space for your newborn kittens to feed from their mother and for her to care for them all.
For privacy and security, the sides of the box should be fairly high and you should be able to partially cover the top with a towel. To allow access in and out for feeding and toiletting, cut one side away, leaving a lip of around 3 inches at the bottom. This will stop any newborn kittens accidentally falling out of the box or beginning to explore before they are quite ready.
Old newspapers make excellent bedding as these can be easily removed and disposed of as they become soiled following the delivery of each kitten. Shred some of the newspaper to provide cushioning and then top with individual sheets that can be simply removed as necessary.
Make sure that you have the nesting box ready at least two weeks before your kitten's expected delivery date and let your cat become familiar with it. You will need to place it in a warm, draught-free place, away from the busyness of family life. Your cat will need to be kept stress free and feeling secure so that she can concentrate on the business of giving birth.
It is likely that she will not approve of your chosen position for her nest so look out for signs that she is constructing her own nest somewhere else. If she does this, just move the box to that place.
You must be certain not to let your cat out of the house for two or even three weeks before you think that her kittens are due. If she is allowed to make her nest outside you may find that she disappears into it unexpectedly and you will not then be able to find her. Should this happen, the consequences may not be at all good.
Once you have constructed your lovely cat a nesting box, you are all ready to welcome your new kittens!
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by: JaneTompsett
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