Breeder basics - what to expect when you're expecting

Whether you have made the decision to breed from your cat or dog, or you’re expecting an accidental litter, there is plenty that can be done in advance to help prepare mum and your family for what lies ahead, and Agria is here to help you care for your breeding queen or bitch, protecting both the mother (through gestation) and her litter. Here are some essential tips for breeders as we head into peak kitten and puppy season.

Whilst the arrival of litters of kittens and puppies is totally natural, complications may occur, which can be costly and, in an emergency, hugely stressful.

For planned litters

So, what’s the best way to protect mum & her litter whilst in my care?

In those moments you want to know that the mum and her young are protected, so you can concentrate on their wellbeing and recovery rather than worrying about the money. Breeding risks cover is an add-on to your cat or dog’s Lifetime insurance to protect mum and her litter, from conception, throughout gestation, birth and beyond. Including:

Vet fees from birth until 14 weeks old for puppies, and 20 weeks for kittens, or until they leave you if that’s sooner.
Up to £1,000 per year on fertility tests and treatment for mum.
Up to £1,000 per year on vet fees relating to pregnancy and delivery.
Up to £2,500 towards the purchase price of the mum should you sadly lose her due to pregnancy-related complications.

Cover needs to be in place 12 weeks before mating; for cats this can be from 9 months so it’s ready to start at a year; for dogs you can add it at 12 months, so it can take effect from 15 months.

Find out more about Breeding Risks Cover and read of one breeder’s experiences.

What is the ideal age to breed from my dog?

Whether you have the father or mother, age is an important consideration. For the mum, she should have had at least one season, and be under 7 years old for her first litter. For the dad, you need to bear in mind that fertility does diminish with age. Find out more about dog mating and pregnancy.

How can I tell if my dog is pregnant?

If your dog was mated intentionally, or went missing in action at a crucial time of her season, making yourself aware of the signs of pregnancy will help reduce complications later. To maintain a healthy pregnancy and give birth safely, mum will benefit from a little TLC. Behavioural changes might be the first clues of impending motherhood, physical symptoms may creep up a little more slowly. You can find out more about the behavioural and physical changes here..

How long will my dog be in labour?

This can vary due to age and experience of mum, but it is important to be aware of the 3 stages of labour so you can monitor closely the completion of each. Our step-by-step guide includes concerning signs to watch out for and more.

How do I know when to step in and when to leave the new mum & pups alone?

You don’t want to inhibit bonding between mum & pups, and allowing her maternal instincts to kick in, but you also need to be aware that she may need a little help, especially if the puppies arrived in a hurry, or she is an exhausted first-time mum. Prepare yourself with Agria’s guide on post-delivery care.

What are the benefits of Breeding Risks Cover to my cat and myself?

Sadly, pregnancy and new life is not without its risks for both mum and her litter. Agria has anticipated these and this protection can be added on to your cat’s existing Lifetime policy from as early as 9 months old, so it’s ready to start when they are a year old. Read about one breeder’s experience, and how Agria helped her pay for emergency treatment when one of her kittens got dangerously sick.

How can I help my cat as she goes into labour?

Being organised will help create a calm environment for your cat to deliver her kittens in, and making up a birthing box in advance will give mum time to get used to it and feel relaxed herself. Read Agria’s guide to preparing space for the delivery, as well as a basic birthing kit to have to hand. It will also take you through the 3 stages of birth so you have an idea of what to expect and when to seek help.

What makes a responsible breeder?

Whatever stage of your breeding journey you’re at, it’s vital to understand what makes a responsible breeder, and be prepared for the commitment required. Agria’s guide will show you how.

For the little surprises

As Breeding Risks Cover must be incepted at least 12 weeks before mating, this isn’t an option for those queens and bitches who’ve taken their love lives into their own paws! But there’s still lots you can do to prepare and help the mum to be.

Join the Agria Breeder Club and find yourself an experienced mentor within the exclusive Agria Facebook Community, or just tap into the enormous wealth of knowledge and experience to be found there.
As soon as you pick up on the signs of pregnancy, book your mum-to-be an appointment with your vet for a health check and professional advice.
You can also rely on the Agria App, 24/7, for veterinary consultations should you have any queries or concerns.
Contact your breeder, as they have clearly been through it all before and will be happy to help.

What are the benefits of joining Agria’s Breeder Club?

Not only will you be welcomed into the Facebook community of Agria breeders, with access to support, expert advice, and exclusive offers & discounts, but you’ll be able to secure your litters 5 weeks free insurance as they go off to their new homes, softening the blow of letting them go. This covers all your little ones, puppies and kittens, from 8 weeks, with no upper age limit: