I have a 50-60 day pregnant cat, which goes freely in and out of the house, but prefers being outside 80% of the time, usually coming in at night to sleep. I read that newborn kittens need to be kept warm, and I've seen it suggested that a heating pad was used. Specifically an article stated that the kittens wouldn't be ready for 70-75° F temperatures until a few weeks of age.
First, is this accurate? I live in Louisiana, USA, a warm climate, so I'm not sure if heating would really be necessary.
I would assume cats are capable of taking care of their kittens just fine without help, but articles I've been reading seem to dictate otherwise.
If warmth is necessary, and my cat chooses to have the kittens outside, which is highly possible, should I move them and if so, how?
If I pick them all up into a box and carry them inside, would that scare the mother?
Also, I live in a x3-wide trailer with an enclosed lower skirted area, where the cat seems to go at night for safety if not yet inside, what if the kittens are had under there where I can't find / get to them, will they be ok?