Your veterinarian can palpate for pregnancy by abdominal palpation of the uterus approximately 21-28 days after the first breeding. Also, ultrasonography can be used to determine pregnancy. Recently, a simple in-clinic blood test for pregnancy has become available and serves as an additional means of confirming pregnancy. X-rays can be taken without risk to the female or the fetuses one to two weeks prior to the due date. Radiography is particularly helpful because it allows your veterinarian to confirm pregnancy, determine the number of fetuses, assess the size and general health of the fetuses, and gauge the size of the maternal birth canal.
Good nutrition is essential during the pregnancy.
Her need for more food, particularly protein and calcium, is especially significant in the second month of pregnancy. Many veterinarians recommend feeding a high-quality puppy or kitten food, supplementing with cottage cheese, egg, powdered milk, yogurt or vitamins. Bedding, consisting of towels or shredded newspaper, can be used for cushioning and absorption. Predicting your pet's delivery date is possible by monitoring her rectal temperature twice daily, starting one week before her expected delivery date. An abrupt temperature drop of roughly one or two degrees can usually be detected 24 hours prior to parturition.