62 Chapter 5Mating
A female that is ready to mate will adopt a position known as lordosis whereby she
lowers her front end, raises her pelvis and moves her tail to one side. This position
signals to the male that she is ready to mate and it also helps the male to achieve
intromission. Very soon after intromission she will usually emit a loud high-pitched
cry followed by turning aggressively towards the male. She will then vigorously roll,
stretch, and lick her external genitalia.
Pregnancy
The normal gestation period can vary between breeds and individuals but it generally
lasts 64–68 days, approximately 9 weeks. This is a few days longer than the average
pregnancy of the cat’s wild ancestor Felis lybica. Physical and behavioural changes are
normally seen during pregnancy (see Box 5.1).
Birth
A pregnant cat does not build a nest but she will invest a great deal of time and effort
in finding the most suitable and safe area to give birth. This will usually be some-
where enclosed and sheltered that is also close to essential resources such as food and
water (Lawrence, 1980). Once the nest site has been chosen she will rub around the
area to deposit her scent.
Signs of imminent parturition
● Decreased appetite (she may even refuse all food immediately prior to giving birth).
● Increased vocalization.
● Panting.
● Slight reduction in body temperature.
Stage Duration
Hormonal and
physiological changes Behavioural signsMetoestrus
pseudopregnancy
Average 30–45
days before
returning to
oestrusOccurs if ovulation takes
place without conception.
Progesterone levels
increase, but not to
the same level as in
pregnancy and decline
much earlierMay show the same
behavioural changes
associated with early
pregnancy, although
most show very little
or no physical or
behavioural changesAnoestrus Variable, can
be several
months
A period of no reproductive
activity, usually the
winter monthsReturns to normal
behaviour. Does not
attract malesTable 5.1. Continued.