When your cat is pregnant, it's crucial to pay close attention to her nutritional needs. This includes supplementing her diet with calcium, nutritional pastes, taurine, folic acid, and protein-rich foods.
Early Pregnancy (Weeks 2-3)
During the early stages of pregnancy (around 2 to 3 weeks), avoid overfeeding. Maintain her usual diet. This period is primarily for preparation, both for the necessary nutritional supplements and creating a comfortable environment for the expectant mother. Delay introducing nutritional supplements until mid-pregnancy, and avoid foods with additives or flavor enhancers. Introduce calcium supplements as needed. For her environment, find a quiet, comfortable spot in your home for her to rest and prepare for delivery. Minimize loud noises to prevent stress, which might cause her to seek a different location for her pregnancy.
Mid-Pregnancy (Weeks 4-5)
In the middle of pregnancy (around 4 to 5 weeks), encourage your cat to spend time in the sun to promote Vitamin D synthesis, which is crucial for calcium absorption. This will also support healthy fur and minimize the risk of skin conditions and other illnesses, as their immune system is weaker during pregnancy. At this stage, you can start adding immune-boosting nutritional pastes suitable for pregnancy. Continue to supplement with calcium, taurine, and folic acid. It's essential to increase the intake of protein-rich foods like salmon, chicken breast, and fish broth, or offer goat milk powder.