Canine Pregnancies
Dogs typically require different kinds of care at different stages of their pregnancies. It is important to keep up with necessary dietary and exercise changes and schedule regular veterinary visits.
Pregnant Dog Nutrition Requirements
Unfortunately, most food for adult dogs will not have the additional nutrition a pregnant pup requires. To ensure she’s getting a fully balanced diet, talk to your veterinarian. Most pregnant dogs can get the nutrients they need from puppy food, but some will require additional nutritional supplements. The mamma-to-be can continue with this diet until after she gives birth. Whenever you switch a dog’s food, do it in small intervals (and not all at once) to avoid unnecessary upset stomachs.
Pregnant Canine Exercise Needs
While you don’t want to put your expecting pup through an intensive agility course, keeping up with regular walks can help her maintain strength through her pregnancy. It’s best to stick to shorter, frequent walks throughout the day. This will help her be fit enough to successfully deliver her puppies when it’s time.
Talk to Your Vet
Working closely with your veterinarian during pregnancy will help keep your dog and her unborn puppies as healthy as possible. Since the mom can pass on illness and certain parasites to her babies, it’s essential to keep up with parasite prevention.
Feline Pregnancies
While expecting cats need similar care to dogs during pregnancy, they do have certain unique care needs.
More Food and Water
Switching to kitten food during pregnancy can help ensure everyone is getting the right nutrients. By the end of her pregnancy, your mamma cat will have a more voracious appetite, so don’t be alarmed if her portion sizes increase significantly. She will also need to drink more water until she delivers her kittens. Placing a few different water bowls around the house might be a good idea so she has easy access to fresh, clean water.
Love and Attention
Animals go through hormonal changes during pregnancy that can affect their daily habits. As your cat gets further into her pregnancy, she might need a little extra love and physical affection. Just remember to be careful handling her as her body changes.
Space for Mom and Kittens
When your cat is ready to give birth, create a safe and comfortable space where she can deliver her babies. This can be as simple as a cardboard box lined with sheets, linens, or even towels. Before you know it, you’ll have a whole litter of healthy kittens.
We hope these tips help you prepare for a healthy pet pregnancy that protects mama’s health as well as that of her litter.
If your pet is pregnant, the caring team at Union Lake Veterinary Hospital is here for you. We can monitor your girl throughout pregnancy to keep her healthy. For more information or to schedule an appointment to ensure a healthy pet pregnancy, please call (248) 363-508.