This is precisely the same as in the dog, viz. nine weeks; and it is only during the later phases of gestation that a reasonable amount of care need be exercised.

When a queen is heavy in kitten, the flanks and the belly become considerably enlarged, and later on the teats enlarge; while, a few days before full time, milk appears, which may be taken as significant of approaching labour.

A liberal system of feeding must be followed, and, if possible, she must be allowed exercise. About the end of the eighth week, see that she is provided with a box containing a bed of hay in some secluded position, easily accessible to her at all hours, day and night.

She will soon regard this in the light it is intended. If all goes well, the delivery of the kittens should be accomplished without any aid, - interference being unnecessary and prejudicial at this time.

Some queens make excellent mothers, - others the reverse.

In the latter case, it is advisable to provide a foster nurse, the substitution of the offspring being gradual. A foster mother can be substituted any time, or she may be utilized for rearing, say, half the litter only. In any case it is advisable to leave the kittens with the mother for a couple of months; in fact, some breeders allow the queen or foster parent, if she is a prolonged milker, to suckle the young for three months; yet it is a wise plan to supplement this with a partial weaning.

Cows' milk, with a little sugar in it, and made lukewarm, is the right nourishment, at and subsequent to this time.