How can you tell if a cat and a cat have mated successfully? - briefly
To determine if two cats have successfully mated, observe for signs such as the male's withdrawal of his penis after ejaculation and the female's behavioral changes like rolling on her back and vocalizing. Additionally, successful copulation typically results in a noticeable decrease in the male's interest in mating shortly afterward.
How can you tell if a cat and a cat have mated successfully? - in detail
Determining whether two cats have mated successfully involves observing several key behaviors and physical changes in both cats. Here is a detailed breakdown of what to look for:
Behavioral Changes
- Mating Call: The first sign that mating may be successful is when the female cat starts vocalizing loudly, often referred to as "calling." This behavior is her way of inviting males to mate with her.
- Lordosis: If a male approaches and attempts to mount her, a receptive female will arch her back and lift her tail to the side in a position known as lordosis. This posture allows the male to successfully mate with her.
- Tie: During successful mating, the male cat's penis swells inside the female, creating what is known as a "tie." This can last from a few seconds to half an hour. The cats may appear uncomfortable or try to separate during this time, but it is a normal part of the feline mating process.
- Post-Mating Behavior: After mating, the female cat might exhibit changes in her behavior such as increased grooming, restlessness, or a decrease in appetite. These behaviors are often signs that she has recently mated.
- Male's Reaction: The male cat may also show changes in his behavior post-mating. He might become more protective of the female and mark his territory more frequently to deter other males.
Physical Changes
- Swollen Nipples: One of the most noticeable physical signs that a female cat has mated successfully is the swelling of her nipples. This usually occurs within 7-10 days after mating and indicates that her body is preparing for lactation.
- Discharge: The female may also produce a clear or slightly bloody vaginal discharge, which is a normal response to the hormonal changes occurring in her body post-mating.
- Weight Gain: As pregnancy progresses, the female cat will start gaining weight. Regular weighing can help track this change and confirm that mating was successful.
- Palpation: A veterinarian can perform a physical examination or ultrasound to detect fetuses in the uterus, typically around 15-20 days after mating. This is one of the most reliable ways to confirm a successful mating.
Timeline of Pregnancy
- Day 7-14: Swollen nipples and vaginal discharge may appear.
- Day 15-30: A veterinarian can palpate or perform an ultrasound to detect fetuses.
- Day 60-65: The female cat's abdomen will start to visibly enlarge, making the pregnancy more evident.
Confirmation by Veterinary Care
To ensure the health and well-being of both cats, it is highly recommended to consult a veterinarian for confirmation of mating success. They can provide appropriate care and guidance throughout the gestation period, ensuring that both the mother cat and her future kittens are healthy.
By observing these behavioral and physical changes, you can determine whether two cats have successfully mated.