Signs a Pregnant Cat Is About to Give Birth

A pregnant cat shows darkened nipples, swollen breasts, and a little milk leaking before birth; pressing the breast reveals clear whitish milk. In addition, 12–24 hours before delivery the temperature drops 0.5–1°C and returns to normal as birth nears.

Most mother cats also stop eating from pain and discomfort before birth. In the final hours they show uterine contractions, restlessness, rapid breathing, and frequent crying, and sticky fluid flows from the vulva.