Feist: If your female cat has yet to be spayed and has been around an intact male, you might wonder whether she is pregnant. As cat owners, we hate to witness our feline friend going through a difficult time,s andit’ss a bitter fact that many new cat owners fail to observe the initial signs as pregnancy symptoms in cats can be very subtle for the first few weeks. But if you pay attention, you can learn what to look for and when to intervene. This guide covers the typical signs, changes to anticipate, and some tips on helping your cat during her pregnancy.
Understanding Cat Pregnancy
Cats are pregnant for about nine weeks. For most cats, that’s 63 to 67 days. Her body changes rapidly during this time. Hormones peak, she gets hungrier, and her behavior changes as her body readies itself for kittens. Because the early signs are subtle, many owners don’t realize a dog is pregnant until her waistline begins to expand. Being able to recognize the symptoms can allow you to act early and plan adequate care.
Signs of Cat Pregnancy
Symptoms are generally mild for the first two to three weeks. But there are a few changes that can help you guess if something new is going on.
Pink Nipples and Size Increase (Pinking Up)
This is one of the most frequent early signs. By the third week, your cat’s nipples have usually become darker, pinker, and a little bit swollen. They may also feel warmer. If your cat has not had a litter before, this may also be more noticeable to you.
Morning Sickness or Vomiting
Hormonal changes themselves during the first few weeks can cause a pregnant cat to vomit. It doesn’t occur in every pregnant cat, but mild vomiting is perfectly okay. If the vomiting is excessive or severe, there might be an underlying health issue, and you should see a vet.
Increased Affection
Some cats get more affectionate than they usually are. For instance, they might be more of a Velcro dog, trying to sit on your lap or follow you around the house all day seeking petting. This shift in behavior is hormonal and can be an early tip-off.
Reduced Heat Cycle Signs
If your cat was in heat recently and stops her heat behavior suddenly, she may be pregnant. Signs such as painful vocalisation, drooping her back end, or unrest are not seen in the pregnant cat. The lack of heat cycles is usually the first indicator noticed by many owners.
Physical Changes as Pregnancy Progresses
Physical signs are more evident after the first month. Your cat’s body is now preparing for birth, and there are several changes you’ll be able to see.
Noticeable Weight Gain
A pregnant cat’s weight should gradually increase by about one or two kilos, depending on the individual size of the cat and the number of fetuses. And the gain will be coming, for the most part, around the belly, not over the body.
Round and Firm Belly
By the time you are in your fifth week, your belly will be rounder. The firm is good, but it should not be hard. An extremely hard belly could mean a health problem. What you will notice is that the cats walk with a little swagger as their belly increases.
Increased Appetite
A cat that is in gestation eats more; she needs the extra energy to raise the kittens. She can eat nearly twice as much. But if your cat starts to eat a lot, much more than her usual amount of food, then you need to know that your cat is pregnant.
Changes in Behavior
Some cats grow more peaceful or defensive of their space. They might sleep longer and prefer quiet environments. Others grow more vocal or sensitive. The response is variable from cat to cat.
Nesting Behavior Before Birth
For the last two weeks, the cats have been getting ready to give birth! This phase is called nesting.
Searching for Quiet Places
Your cat might go into closets, under the bed, or try to hide in a corner of your house. She does this to locate a safe spot in which to give birth to her kittens.
Rearranging Soft Items
Nesting: A Pregnant cat may carry blankets, towels, and clothes to make a nest out of. If you observe the behavior, make a birthing box in a quiet room.
Restlessness Before Labor
As you near your due date, your cat may start to pace around, groom herself more as she prepares for her impending labor, and breathe faster. She may also lose her appetite the day before giving birth.
How to Confirm Pregnancy
Physical indicators can be useful, but only a vet can provide a definitive answer.
Veterinary Confirmation Methods
Physical examination: The kittens may be felt by the vet after week three or four.
Ultrasound: This is one way to find out early if you are pregnant.
X-ray: Typically delayed to determine how many kittens are inside.
A visit to the vet is also important because there are health problems that resemble pregnancy, including false “pregnancy” and abdominal swelling related to illness. A proper checkup avoids confusion.
How to Take Care of a Pregnant Cat
The mother and kittens benefit from proper care.
Offer High-Quality Food
Pregnant cats need more nutrients. Kitten food is a good choice for them as it contains higher protein and energy.
Keep Her Indoors
This protects her from scuffles, infections, and tragic circumstances. It would also stop her from giving birth outside.
Provide a Quiet Space
Set up a cardboard box and cushion the bottom with soft bedding. It needs to sit in a warm draft draft-free place.
Avoid Unneeded Handling
Avoid pressing or pushing her belly. It can harm the kittens. Gentle petting is fine.
Keep Up with Vet Visits
Regular checks make sure the pregnancy is going well. The vet might also recommend vaccines or deworming if necessary.
When to Seek Emergency Help
If you need to call a vet immediately , if:
She has heavy bleeding
She won’t eat for over a day.
Her belly becomes very hard.
Editor-Blog Following are excerpts from some subject blog editors about a story or topic of the day.
She seems weak or distressed
Fast action can help save the mother and kittens.
FAQs
How long are cats pregnant?
The average cat’s pregnancy is around 9 weeks, anywhere from about 63 to 67 days. A few may deliver a day or two earlier or later.
Can a veterinarian tell if a dog is pregnant early?
Yes. With a physical exam or an ultrasound, a vet can typically tell by three weeks.
Should I switch my cat’s food while pregnant?
Most vets recommend high-quality kitten food because it is more nutrient-dense. Transition the new element in gradually over one or more days.
Is it possible for a pregnant cat to still go into heat?
No. A cat will cease to exhibit heat behavior when she becomes pregnant. When heat signs persist, hormonal issues may be at fault.
How soon will my cat nest?
Nesting behavior typically begins in the final two weeks of pregnancy. Your cat will seek out quiet areas and begin nesting with soft things.
Conclusion
Once you’ve memorized the signs, it becomes quite simple to spot a pregnant cat. Early warning signs of the disease are slight, but shifts in appetite, behavior, and nipple color are strong indicators. As the pregnancy advances, your cat’s belly will swell, and at this point, she’ll begin showing signs of nesting. The most accurate way to verify pregnancy is a trip to the vet. With the right care, a safe home, and a warm birthing place, your cat can have a healthy, stress-free pregnancy. Plus, being prepared will allow you to greet the new kittens with assurance!