How many kittens can cats have?

There’s perhaps nothing cuter in the animal world than a kitten. But what about six of them, or even twelve? Knowing how many kittens your pregnant cat may have will help you prepare for their arrival. And of course, while kittens may be cute, cat pregnancy doesn’t come without health risks and challenges, so we’ll look at whether spaying might be the right option for your pet. But first, let’s look at how many kittens a cat can have.

How many kittens can a cat have?

Historically, cats in the wild produced large litters to ensure the survival of their species. Predators, disease, and other factors meant there was a high chance that not all kittens would reach adulthood. And, while domestic cats don’t have it quite as tough as their wild ancestors, this instinctive drive for reproduction remains today.

On average, 4 to 6 kittens in a single litter is fairly typical. However, anywhere from 1 to 12 is not uncommon. That’s a lot of kittens to take care of! 

Several factors, including the cat's age, breed, health, and whether she’s a first-time mother can affect litter size. Younger cats, especially if they’re having their first litters, often produce fewer kittens because their reproductive systems are still maturing. On the other hand, cats in their prime breeding years (2 to 6 years old) may have larger litters as their bodies are better prepared for pregnancy and birth.

How many kittens in a first litter?

First-time mother cats, known as queens, generally have smaller litters compared to older cats. A typical first litter may contain 2 to 4 kittens, though there are exceptions depending on individual factors. 

These first litters may be considered a "trial run" as the queen's body becomes familiar with pregnancy and the birthing process. This should help pave the way for larger litters in the future. 

Smaller first litters may also be a survival mechanism. Having fewer kittens allows a first-time mother to focus on raising them successfully, increasing the likelihood that all kittens receive adequate care and attention.

While these first litters are often smaller, it doesn’t mean they’re any less significant, or your pregnant cat requires any less care and attention! 

What affects litter size?  

Several factors can influence how many kittens a cat has.

1. Breed: Some breeds, like Siamese cats, tend to have larger litters, while others, like Persians, have smaller ones.  

2. Age: Younger and older queens usually have smaller litters than those in their prime.  

3. Health: A healthy cat with proper nutrition is more likely to have larger litters.  

4. Genetics: A queen's genetic history plays a role in determining litter size.  

How to tell if a cat has kittens inside  

Signs that your cat is pregnant can include things like weight gain, a swollen belly, and increased appetite. If you suspect your cat is having kittens, it’s a good idea to see a vet, who’ll be able to confirm pregnancy by feeling her abdomen or using ultrasound.  

How to tell how many kittens a cat will have  

It’s difficult to know exactly how many kittens a cat will have without the help of a vet. Your vet can use X-rays or ultrasounds to count the kittens, although X-rays tend to be done after 45 days of pregnancy when the kittens’ bones are developed enough to be seen on a scan.  

How quickly do cats breed?  

Cats can reproduce quickly. They reach sexual maturity at about 4 to 6 months old. A female cat can have up to 3 litters per year if she isn’t spayed, depending on things such as her overall health, breed, and genetics.  

If you’re thinking of breeding from your cat, first read our guide on what to consider to ensure the well-being on your pet and her litter. 

What to do if your cat is pregnant

There’s a few things to remember if your cat is pregnant.  

1. Visit the vet: They’ll be able to confirm pregnancy and check for any complications.  

2. Provide proper nutrition: Feed your cat high-quality food designed for pregnant or nursing cats.  

3. Create a nesting area: Offer a quiet, comfortable space for birthing, such as a box lined with soft blankets.  

4. Minimise stress: Keep your cat calm and avoid unnecessary disruptions during her pregnancy.  

For more information on what to do if your cat is pregnant, read our guide.

When to call a vet  

Once your cat begins to give birth, you should call a vet if your pregnant cat shows signs such as:  

• Struggling to give birth for over 30 minutes.  
• Bleeding heavily.  
• Appears in distress or extreme pain.  
• Fails to deliver all kittens within 24 hours.

This list isn’t exhaustive and if you feel something is wrong, then it’s always a good idea to seek the help of a professional.

What to do with stillborn kittens  

Unfortunately, stillborn kittens are not uncommon. If one or more kittens are stillborn, it’s important to stay calm. As upsetting or distressing as it may be, your cat still needs your care and will benefit most from a calm atmosphere. Next, you should remove the stillborn kitten quickly, handling the kitten gently and placing it in a clean cloth or container. Finally, it’s a good idea to contact a vet. They can check for any further kittens and assess your cat’s overall health.  

Information about different breeds

Your cat’s breed can affect their litter size. For example, Siamese and Oriental breeds often have larger litters – between 6-8 kittens is not uncommon. Meanwhile, Persian and Scottish Fold cats often have smaller litters, only producing 2-4 kittens on average.  

How many kittens do popular breeds have?  

Here’s a further look at the typical litter sizes for some popular cat breeds.

• Ragdolls: The average ragdoll has 4-6 kittens per litter.  
• Maine Coons: Typically 4-7 kittens.  
• Bengals: On average, Bengals have 4-5 kittens.  
• Sphynx cats: Usually 3-5 kittens.  
• Scottish Folds: Commonly 2-4 kittens.  

A final word: Should you spay your cat?

While the thought of lots of kittens running your home around may seem cute, cat pregnancy can have its downsides for your pet. Spaying not only helps prevent unwanted litters, but it can also reduce the risk of certain health problems, like uterine infections and cancers. Typically, it’s recommended you spay your cat before her first heat, which usually occurs around 5 to 6 months. Keep in mind that every cat is different though! You can discuss preventative pet healthcare options, including when to have your cat spayed, with your vet.

FAQs about cats having kittens