The gestation period for a Bengal and Savannah cat typically spans approximately 9 to 10 weeks, generally ranging from 60 to 70 days. Most cats deliver between days 63 and 65. Below is a detailed overview of the developmental stages from conception to the birth of Bengal and Savannah kittens:

Week 1: During the initial week, fertilisation occurs as sperm travel to the eggs, which then implant in the uterus.

Week 2: The fertilised eggs embed in the uterine lining and begin developing into embryos. Behavioural changes in your Bengal Savannah cat may become noticeable at this stage.

Week 3: By the end of week three (approximately day 27), the mother’s nipples typically exhibit a pink colouration, starting with the lower ones—this serves as a reliable indicator of pregnancy.

Week 4: Your cat may exhibit increased fatigue and sleep more than usual. Some individuals might experience mild nausea or vomiting.

Week 5: At this point, the kittens are roughly the size of walnuts. Nutritional intake directly supports fetal growth. A veterinarian or experienced breeder may be able to palpate the kittens to estimate litter size, though this remains approximate. You will also observe noticeable abdominal enlargement.

Week 6: The mother’s appetite will significantly increase, making it advisable to transition her to a higher-protein diet, such as kitten food. The fetuses now resemble miniature kittens, and the mother will increase her grooming behaviour. Nipples will become engorged, and she may begin seeking secure, comfortable locations for parturition and rearing.

Week 7: Pregnancy becomes visibly apparent, and fetal movements may be perceptible upon gentle palpation. The mother often displays increased affection during this period.

Week 8: The shapes of the kittens can be felt moving beneath the abdomen. Due to reduced stomach capacity, her food intake may decrease. She will actively search for a safe nesting area, so it is advisable to prepare a comfortable maternity space. While this is an excellent time for pregnancy photographs, it is important to minimise stress by limiting excessive handling.

From this stage onward, anticipate some sleepless nights as close monitoring continues, including overnight checks to ensure the mother’s well-being.

Week 9: Milk production may commence, observable by gentle pressure on the nipples. Some cats may exhibit a dark brown vulvar discharge a few days before delivery. Provided the cat behaves normally, this is typically not a cause for concern. The kittens may arrive at any moment; therefore, vigilant observation is essential, especially during nighttime when most births occur. A delivery box should be prepared, and veterinary contact information kept readily accessible.

Week 10: Should the kittens not be born by the conclusion of week 10, immediate consultation with a veterinarian is strongly recommended.

Having decided to allow your female cat to go into heat and produce a litter of kittens, it is imperative to be thoroughly prepared to care for both the pregnant cat and her offspring. While queens typically possess strong maternal instincts, responsible pet owners must actively provide appropriate care and support.

Upon confirmation of pregnancy, attention must be given to her nutrition, environment, and daily routine. Additionally, recognising pregnancy signs and anticipating the expected delivery date are essential.

How Can I Determine If My Cat Is Pregnant?

A cat may enter heat as early as four months of age. Signs of heat include distinctive vocalisations, rubbing against objects, and assuming mating postures.

Feline gestation typically ranges from 58 to 67 days. Following conception, you may observe the following indicators:

• Noticeable changes in behaviour and temperament; for example, an affectionate cat may become aloof, or vice versa.
• Increased sleep and heightened appetite.
• Some cats may experience symptoms akin to “morning sickness.”
• By the third week, the nipples enlarge and exhibit a pink hue, a phenomenon known as “pinking up.”
• By the fourth week, physical changes become apparent, including weight gain primarily around the abdomen.
• By the end of the fourth week, it is often possible to palpate the kittens’ outlines within the abdomen.

What Veterinary Care Is Required for My Pregnant Cat?

Vaccinations

Before allowing your cat to enter heat, ensure she is current on all core and non-core vaccinations. Diseases such as feline herpesvirus can be transmitted from mother to kittens. Vaccination protects against several potentially fatal illnesses, and maternal antibodies are passed to kittens through nursing during their first eight weeks. Vaccination during pregnancy should generally be avoided due to potential risks to the developing kittens. Some rabies vaccines may be permissible; however, always consult your veterinarian beforehand.

Deworming

Deworming during pregnancy is critical to prevent transmission of parasites such as roundworms to the kittens, either in utero or via the mother’s milk. Exercise caution when selecting deworming agents, as some contain substances harmful to pregnant or nursing cats. Veterinary guidance is essential before administering any deworming treatment.

Check-ups

If pregnancy is suspected, schedule a veterinary examination. Behavioural changes may indicate other medical conditions unrelated to pregnancy. Within approximately three weeks, a veterinarian can often confirm pregnancy through gentle abdominal palpation. Ultrasound imaging may be employed for confirmation if necessary. Mid-gestation, your veterinarian may advise on finding suitable homes for the kittens and discuss spaying your cat post-delivery—a responsible step in population control. One to two weeks before the expected birth, ultrasound or radiography may be recommended to estimate litter size, though these methods are not always precise.

What Is the Appropriate Diet for My Pregnant Cat?

Pregnant cats require enhanced nutrition to support fetal development. Consult your veterinarian for tailored dietary recommendations. Typically, a high-quality diet rich in protein and calcium is advised. Many veterinarians recommend feeding specially formulated kitten food during pregnancy, as it provides additional nutrients and calories.

Initially, avoid significantly increasing food quantity to prevent excessive weight gain, which can complicate pregnancy. However, if your cat is losing weight, increasing her food intake is appropriate.

Transition gradually to kitten food to minimise gastrointestinal upset. During the final three to four weeks of pregnancy, increase her food intake by approximately 25% and offer smaller, more frequent meals—around five per day—to accommodate the reduced stomach capacity caused by growing kittens.

Ensure constant access to fresh, clean water throughout pregnancy.

What Level of Activity Is Suitable for My Pregnant Cat?

Your pregnant cat does not need to be confined indoors; she may safely enjoy supervised outdoor time, provided potential hazards are minimised. Monitoring her activity is important to maintain health and well-being throughout gestation.