How Young Can a Cat Have Kittens?
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Posted by Jennifer Copley Jul 9, 2009 |
While their bodies continue to mature for some time afterward, cats of both genders can begin breeding as young as 5 months of age.
Many female cats experience their first heat at around 6 months of age, though 5-12 months is normal for most breeds. Male cats can usually sire a litter by 5 months of age as well.
There are a few breeds that mature more slowly, and malnourished cats may take longer to reach sexual maturity as well.
Having pets spayed or neutered before they are able to reproduce will not alter their personalities (except for reducing fighting and roaming in males) or create health problems. In fact, getting pets fixed early reduces their risk of suffering health problems later on. For more on this, see Reasons to Spay or Neuter Cats.
For more on cat pregnancy, see:
How to Care for a Pregnant Cat
How to Prepare for the Birth of Kittens
For more cat facts, see:
Cats Don't Always Land on Their Feet
Can Cats Be Fed a Vegetarian Diet?
Why Do Cats Make Chattering Sounds When They See Birds Through a Window?
Why Do Cats' Eyes Glow in the Dark?
Tortoiseshell Cats Are Nearly Always Female
Are White Cats with Blue Eyes Deaf?
Why Do Cats Make Sudden Mad Dashes Around the House?
Why Does My Cat Prefer Dirty Water That's Been Sitting Around to Fresh Tap Water?
How Many People Share Their Beds with Their Pets?
Are Cats and Dogs Colour-Blind?