Preparing for Your First Litter of Kittens

Your first litter of kittens is on the way and you're feeling a mix of nerves and excitement. That is completely normal. This is a big moment and if you're anything like I was before my first litter, you're probably wondering

Will I know what to do?
What if something goes wrong?
Am I ready?

Whether your queen is due in a few weeks or just a few days, the time to start preparing is now. Preparation means more than just gathering supplies. It means getting yourself ready too, both mentally and emotionally, so you can support your queen and raise your first litter with confidence.

It’s Normal to Feel Nervous

Breeding cats is incredibly rewarding, but that does not mean it is always easy. The lead-up to your first litter can feel overwhelming, especially when you're trying to learn everything at once.

Maybe you have been researching kitten development, watching birthing videos, or reading posts in breeder groups. All of that information can be helpful, but it can also leave you feeling more uncertain than ever.

If that sounds familiar, take a breath. You do not have to know everything right now. You just need to focus on being calm, prepared, and ready to support your queen.

The Practical Side of Preparation

When it comes to birthing day, a few simple things can make all the difference.

• A quiet, safe space where your queen can give birth and raise her kittens

• Supplies ready ahead of time so you are not searching drawers mid-delivery

• A clear idea of what is normal and when to call your vet

• A printed checklist you can follow so you do not forget anything

One of the most important things I tell my New Cat Breeders Club members is this. Most births go smoothly. Your job is to be prepared and calm. Most queens know what to do, especially if you have given them a secure and peaceful environment and are nearby if help is needed.

A Video to Help You See What Labour Looks Like

If you have never seen a cat give birth before, it can be hard to picture what it will actually be like. That is why I filmed one of my queens giving birth so new breeders like you can see what the process looks like in real time.

CAT GIVING BIRTH – From Start to Finish
This is my beautiful girl Crystal Flames Yamaica. Yammy is having her babies and I made this video to show everyone the stages of a cat's labour. This is stage two. She is contracting and giving birth.

It is a long video. That is on purpose. It is designed for new breeders to watch or leave running in the background while you're doing other things. It helps you experience the timing of what a cat will actually do when the time comes to have her kittens.

👉 Watch the video here

It is a helpful way to take some of the mystery and fear out of your first experience.

Getting Your Mindset Right

Preparation is not just about physical supplies. There is an emotional side to it as well.

Birth is unpredictable. Even experienced breeders have moments of doubt, and your first time is always a learning experience. That is okay. Give yourself permission not to be perfect. Your queen is not expecting perfection. She just needs you to be there, calm and present.

It helps to:

• Get plenty of rest the week your queen is due

• Have someone you can message or call if needed

• Remind yourself that most births go well and you are doing your best

You do not need to have all the answers. You just need a plan, a clear head, and a checklist.

The Free Birthing Checklist I Use Myself

I have created a three-page birthing checklist based on my years of experience breeding and raising kittens. This is the exact one I use every time one of my queens is due. It is detailed, easy to follow, and gives you peace of mind that you have thought of everything.

You can download it for free right here
👉 Get the Birthing Checklist

Print it out. Keep it nearby. Tick things off as you go. It is one of the simplest ways to feel more confident heading into your first litter.

You’re Not Alone

If you are reading this, you are already the kind of breeder who wants to do things well. That matters. Good breeders are not perfect. They are prepared. They keep learning. They care deeply about their cats. And they know it is okay to ask for help.

If you want extra support, guidance and encouragement, come and join my New Cat Breeders Club. It is a friendly and judgement-free community where you can learn and grow at your own pace with others who understand what you're going through.

Final Thoughts

Your first litter is something you will always remember. It is a milestone and a moment to be proud of.

With the right preparation, the right support, and the right mindset, you can step into this experience with calm, confidence and a sense of purpose.

You have got this. And I am here to help.