Dogs are pregnant about 63 days (range 58–68); cats about 65 days (range 61–70), counted from breeding. Exact timing varies, and the breeding date isn't always the conception date. Confirm pregnancy and dates with your vet, and have an emergency vet contact ready for the birth.
Understanding the due date & timeline
This gives an estimated due date and a week-by-week timeline, counted from the breeding date.
What the terms mean
- Gestation — how long pregnancy lasts: about 63 days in dogs and 65 days in cats (a range, not an exact day).
- Breeding date ≠ conception — the mating day isn't always the exact conception day, so the due date is an estimate.
- Whelping / queening — giving birth — in dogs (whelping) and cats (queening).
How to use it
Plan around it: when to confirm with the vet, when to set up a whelping/queening box, and the window to watch for labor.
Common questions
How accurate is the due date?
It's an estimate of a few days either way; a vet can narrow it with an exam.
When can a vet confirm pregnancy?
Usually by ultrasound from around day 25–30, with a puppy/kitten count by X-ray later on.
What if she goes past the due date?
A day or two over can be normal, but call your vet if labor doesn't start in the expected window or she seems unwell.