How does a cat give birth twice?

How does a cat give birth twice? - briefly

A cat can give birth twice by experiencing two separate pregnancies, with each litter typically born after a gestation period of approximately 63-65 days.

How does a cat give birth twice? - in detail

A cat can give birth twice through a process known as "superfetation," though it is rare in felines. Superfetation occurs when a pregnant cat ovulates and conceives again while already carrying an existing litter. This phenomenon results in two separate pregnancies developing simultaneously but at different stages. Cats are induced ovulators, meaning ovulation is triggered by mating, which makes superfetation biologically possible. After the initial conception, if the cat mates again during pregnancy, a second set of embryos can form. The first litter is carried to term and delivered first, followed by the second litter after an additional gestation period. The timing between the two births depends on the interval between the two conceptions. This process requires precise hormonal conditions and is more common in species with shorter gestation periods, such as cats. While superfetation is unusual, it demonstrates the reproductive adaptability of felines.