# Cat Reproduction: Seasonal Estrus, Induced Ovulation, Breeding & Gestation in the Queen

> Reproductive physiology of the queen: puberty 4–12 months, seasonally polyestrous, 14–21-day cycle, estrus 6–7 days, induced ovulation 24–48 h after breeding, pseudopregnancy 40 days, gestation 64–66 days.

- Source page: https://wevet.in/reproduction/cat/
- Type: Reproduction
- Publisher: WeVet
- Updated: 2026-11-01
- Audience: veterinarians and veterinary students

Key reproductive figures for the cat from the MSD Veterinary Manual reproductive-cycle and gestation tables [1][2] and the Merck chapters on whelping and queening [3] and on breeding management of queens [4].

## Key figures

| Feature | Cat | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Age at puberty | 4–12 months | [1] |
| Cycle | Seasonally polyestrous, spring through early autumn; 14–21 days | [1] |
| Duration of estrus | 6–7 days | [1] |
| Ovulation | Induced; occurs 24–48 h after breeding | [1] |
| Best time to breed | Daily from day 2 of estrus | [1] |
| First estrus after queening | 4–6 weeks | [1] |
| Pseudopregnancy | Lasts 40 days | [1] |
| Gestation | 65 days | [2] |
| Gestation from the LH surge triggered by copulation | 64–66 days | [3] |

Infertile breedings delay the onset of the next cycle by approximately 45 days [1].

## Breeding management

- Because ovulation is induced by vaginal-cervical stimulation, multiple breedings over 2–3 days are advised [4].
- The queen should be taken to the tom when she shows signs of estrus (vocalization, lordosis), as early as the second day [4].
- Pregnancy can be evaluated by abdominal palpation and ultrasonography 21–30 days after breeding [4].

## Frequently asked questions

### Are cats induced ovulators?

Yes — ovulation is induced by vaginal-cervical stimulation and occurs 24–48 hours after breeding [1][4].

### How long is a cat in heat?

Estrus lasts 6–7 days, and cats cycle every 14–21 days in the breeding season [1].

### How long is a cat pregnant?

About 65 days [2]; 64–66 days from the LH surge triggered by copulation [3].

## References

[1] Features of the Reproductive Cycle (table) — MSD Veterinary Manual. https://www.msdvetmanual.com/multimedia/table/features-of-the-reproductive-cycle
[2] Approximate Gestation Periods (table) — MSD Veterinary Manual. https://www.msdvetmanual.com/multimedia/table/approximate-gestation-periods
[3] Whelping and Queening in Bitches and Queens — Davidson AP — Merck Veterinary Manual (reviewed 2025). https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition/management-of-reproduction-dogs-and-cats/whelping-and-queening-in-dogs-and-cats
[4] Breeding Management of Queens — Merck Veterinary Manual. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition/management-of-reproduction-dogs-and-cats/breeding-management-of-queens

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Numbers in [brackets] cite the references above. For veterinary professionals. Information supports — never replaces — clinical judgement; always check the current product label and local regulations.
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