How To Tell If Your Cat Is Pregnant Without A Vet

Signs a Cat is Pregnant & What to Know

“Does my cat appear to be pregnant?” It’s a question that a surprising number of cat owners have asked themselves. The likelihood of your cat becoming pregnant increases if you have not had her spayed and she has been left alone for an extended period of time. The question is, how can one know for certain? Learn how to know whether your cat is pregnant by following these steps: During the brief gestation period, there are a number of important signs and characteristics to watch for.

How Long Are Cats Pregnant?

Cats are capable of being pregnant for around two months. A cat can be pregnant for between 63 and 67 days, however it can be pregnant for up to 72 days. In many cases, a cat will not show indications of pregnancy until two or three weeks into the pregnancy. It will take a pet owner little more than a month to organize and prepare for the event.

Signs a Cat Is Pregnant

To determine if your cat is pregnant the old-fashioned manner, follow these steps.

• Change in the Heat Cycle: Your cat will typically go through a heat cycle every 10 days to two weeks. When this occurs, yowling and rolling on the floor are common accompaniments. When she becomes pregnant, this will come to an end. Appetite Increase: Your pregnant “queen” will likely need extra food at this period (around 1.5 times her typical diet), since she is not only nourishing herself but also her unborn child. Darkened Nipples: The cat’s nipples will enlarge and turn pink in color as a result of the illness. They may seem darker and more engorged if she has had more than one litter, which is particularly likely. Despite the fact that it may be difficult to see behind a thick coat of black fur, Vomiting: Both humans and cats experience morning sickness on a regular basis. Vomiting on a regular basis may be a symptom that she is pregnant early on. Alternatively, if your cat is consistently doing this with all of its meals and there are no other signs of pregnancy, it might be a symptom of other more serious problems. Weight Rise: Owners will frequently notice a two- to four-pound weight gain, particularly later in the gestation period. Your cat will desire to sleep for longer amounts of time, which will result in longer sleep times. Loving Behavior: Many pet owners have said that they have seen an increase in affectionate behavior in their pets. You may notice that your pet is attempting to get your attention on a regular basis. As a result of hormonal and neurological changes, this occurs. Preparing to Have a Litter: Cats prepare for birth by seeking out isolated, calm areas in which to have their litter. In certain cases, your cat may even begin arranging blankets or being combative with other animals in her territory. Bloated Abdomen: About halfway through your cat’s gestation cycle, she will begin to exhibit physical symptoms of pregnancy. On overweight cats, this distortion may be more difficult to detect.

Of course, there are a variety of factors at play. For example, hunger alone may be a symptom of a more serious problem, and weight increase is not always abnormal. Furthermore, it might be difficult to determine whether or not an obese cat with black hair is pregnant. To be certain, an owner may choose to consult with a veterinarian.

How to Know If Your Cat Is Pregnant for Certain

Your trustworthy, local veterinarian will be able to tell you with certainty if your cat is pregnant by employing one of the following strategies:

• The use of palpation: An expert veterinarian may gently push on a cat’s belly and feel the cat’s fetuses as early as the cat’s 20th day of pregnancy. A x-ray of the kitten will only reveal the skeleton of the cat when it is roughly 40 days into the pregnancy. It’s the most effective approach to demonstrate the number of kittens
• Ultrasound: Ultrasounds can detect kittens as early as 21 days into a pregnancy, however it might be difficult to determine the exact number of kittens present at the time.

How Many Kittens Can a Cat Have in One Litter?

A litter of kittens normally contains between one and ten kittens. First-time queens are more likely to have smaller litters of two or three kittens than experienced queens. Older queens also have smaller litters of eggs than younger queens. Depending on the breed, it may also vary in size; for example, Siamese cats prefer to have large litters, whilst Persian cats tend to have smaller litters. It’s a good idea to consult with your veterinarian to determine how many kittens will be in the litter.

Pet owners are occasionally taken aback by the appearance of additional kittens, given that there is generally a ten-minute to an hour gap between them.

What Age Can a Cat Get Pregnant

A cat can get pregnant as soon as she is four months old, which is why it is so crucial to have her spayed as soon as possible after she is born. At this time of year, it is common for female cats to experience “heat.” A cat does not go through menopause in the same way that a woman does; it might continue to become pregnant until its final few years of life. As a result, a cat that has not been spayed can get pregnant at any age, including when it is very young. If you have any further questions concerning feline pregnancy that have not been addressed here, please do not hesitate to contact us for additional information.

Consider paying us a visit to ensure everything is in order and to prepare. There are a variety of medical reasons to have your cat checked out, especially if this is your cat’s first litter.

How to tell if a cat is pregnant: 5 tell-tale signs

It may happen to even the most attentive pet parents. Your indoor cat has slipped outside, and you’re now wondering if she’s carrying kittens in her womb. Without treatment, even one single interaction with him might result in pregnancy if she is not sterilized. Even kittens as young as four months of age have been known to become pregnancies. As Dr. Eloise Bright, a veterinarian with Love That Pet, explains, “Cats are really effective breeders.” If you have an unspayed female cat that has access to male cats, the chances are good that she will become pregnant twice a year, she explains.

Here’s all you need to know about the situation.

What are cat pregnancy symptoms and signs?

When a cat is pregnant, there are usually no visible changes in her appearance during the first few weeks of her pregnancy. You will, however, become aware of the changes as soon as they begin. In three weeks, there should be some apparent improvements in behavior and physical appearance, according to Dr. Rachel Barrack, a Manhattan-based veterinarian who is also a trained veterinary Chinese herbalist and veterinary acupuncture. Look for these five telltale indicators to determine whether or not your cat is pregnant.

1. Darkened nipples

The nipples of a pregnant cat will get deeper in color and swollen after around three weeks of pregnancy. This is referred to as “pinking up” by veterinarians. In addition, you may observe some creamy discharge coming from the nipples, despite the fact that cats do not begin producing milk until after delivery.

2. Morning sickness

A pregnant cat, like a person, may suffer through periods of sickness from time to time throughout her pregnancy. Not all cats have morning sickness (just as not all pregnant women do), but if your cat does, keep an eye on her and contact your veterinarian if the vomiting becomes regular or if your cat looks to be unwell at all.

3. Swollen belly

A rounded, bulging abdomen is one of the first signs of pregnancy in cats, and it appears around the 30-day mark. However, this indication is not always obvious. If your cat is overweight to begin with, her tummy distension may be less obvious, but she will still gain weight as a result of the pregnancy, according to Barrack. A pregnant cat will gain between two and four pounds in total, depending on the number of kittens she gives birth to.

4. Nesting

A pregnant cat will frequently begin “nesting” when she has about two weeks left to go in her pregnancy. In Barrack’s opinion, “she may find a peaceful location and begin organizing blankets for a labor and delivery area.” As well as being more maternal toward you, your cat may begin purring more frequently and displaying more affection toward you. Her tolerance for other pets and animals may also diminish at the same time.

5. Positive ultrasound

The most accurate approach to determine whether or not your cat is pregnant is to take her to the veterinarian and have her undergo an X-ray or ultrasound. The kittens are not visible on X-rays until they are 40 to 45 days old, at which point their bones are evident. When compared to X-rays, ultrasounds may be performed as early as 21 days after the kittens are born, although it is frequently difficult to quantify the number of kittens present with an ultrasound.

It is not necessary to be concerned about utilizing an X-ray on a pregnant cat. Fortunately, Bright notes, “the quantity of radiation is rather modest,” and therefore one radiograph is typically deemed safe for developing kittens.

How long do cats stay pregnant?

The pregnancy of a cat lasts nine weeks, or around 63 days. In the event that you have reason to believe your cat is pregnant, take her to your veterinarian for confirmation. Pregnancy should be discussed with your veterinarian, whether it is planned or unforeseen, according to Barrack. “This will ensure that mom and baby are healthy and doing well,” he adds.

Is My Cat Pregnant? How to Tell & Tips for Care

Has your female cat been on the slim side all of her life, but she’s suddenly piling on the pounds? If that’s the case, it’s only reasonable to question if she’s pregnant. Fortunately, determining whether or not a cat is pregnant typically boils down to a few obvious indications, such as:

• Weight increase will be noticeable in a few weeks (she will gain between 2 and 4 pounds in total)
• Nipples that are swollen and pink (this is referred to as “pinking up,” and it begins about week three of pregnancy)
• Inflammation in the abdomen (first visible around week five)
• Increased hunger
• Vomiting
• Changes in personality (she may become more loving or, less frequently, more reclusive)
• Swollen lymph nodes.

If you have a female cat that is still intact, meaning she has not been spayed, and she checks off any or all of the boxes above, you should consult your veterinarian immediately to confirm the pregnancy. They can use a blood test, an X-ray, and an ultrasound to determine whether or not your cat is pregnant and how many kittens she is carrying around with her.

How to Care for a Pregnant Cat

Now that you’ve discovered that your cat is expecting a child, you’ll want to make certain she has all she needs to remain safe during this time. Even though pregnant cats may be pretty independent, here’s how to care for a pregnant cat throughout the 58 to 67-day gestation phase (the period of time that a kitten is carried in the womb).

Amp Up Routine Care

Although it may be tempting to cuddle your cat’s pregnant tummy, doing so can be dangerous. According to Animal Planet, pushing on or squeezing her tummy in any manner may create discomfort for the cat and may even result in a miscarriage. And, if you haven’t already, make a point of cleaning her litter box at least once a day – ideally twice a day. If her existing litter box is too high off the ground and has a narrow entrance, consider replacing it with one that is lower to the ground and has a larger entrance.

Focus on Nutrition

The food requirements of cats fluctuate during pregnancy and during nursing a litter of kittens. According to the Cats Protection National Cat Centreof Britain, pregnant cats require “about 25 percent more food” than ordinary cats — yet it is important to avoid overfeeding your feline companion. Pregnant cats have high energy requirements as well, so seek for meals that provide her with the nutrition she need. To ensure that both your cat and her kittens receive the appropriate nutrients to be healthy, consult your veterinarian for detailed feeding recommendations on what food to provide and how often to feed them.

Create a Nesting Environment

Make sure your cat has a secure and pleasant environment to labor and give birth in order for her to be healthy. “Most mother cats will seek their own nesting spot in the last week or two of pregnancy,” adds Veterinary Partner, as they prepare to give birth.

In order to assist her, be prepared for her to demand comfortable bedding, a quiet space with little human activity, and a separate area from other pets in the home. In addition, make certain that everyone in the house respects her privacy and personal space boundaries.

Best Practices for Pregnancy Prevention

Now that you’ve learned how to recognize when a cat is pregnant, and how to care for her during her pregnancy, what if raising a litter of kittens isn’t your ideal scenario? There are a few of approaches that may be taken to avoid unexpected cat pregnancies.

Get Your Cat Spayed

Yes, spaying your female cat will prevent her from becoming pregnant, but there are many more compelling reasons to do so. For example, spaying your cat helps to prevent the following:

• Uterine infections, cancer, and breast tumors are only a few examples of health problems. Your cat is exhibiting signs of “heat”
• Cat overpopulation (the ASPCA claims that 3.2 million homeless cats and kittens enter shelters in the United States each year)
• Cat overpopulation (the ASPCA reports that 3.2 million homeless cats and kittens enter shelters in the United States each year)

If your cat has recently given birth, you should wait until the kittens have been weaned before consulting with your veterinarian regarding the spaying operation and post-surgery recuperation.

Keep Your Cat Indoors

Keeping your cat indoors and away from potential male suitors may be an effective method of preventing cat pregnancy in some cases. According to the Pet Health Network, indoor cats have a lower chance of various possible health dangers, such as a shorter life span, injuries from conflicts with other animals or from joining traffic, and diseases caused by chemicals and viruses exposure, among other things (including feline leukemia). Identifying signs of pregnancy in cats is essential for providing them with the love and attention they require when they are expecting a child.

Contributor Bio

Christine O’Brien is a writer and actress. The author, mother, and long-time cat parent Christine O’Brien lives with her two Russian Blue cats, who are the rulers of the household. Care.com, What to Expect, and Fit Pregnancy are just a few of the publications where she contributes articles about pets, pregnancy, and family life. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter, where she goes by the handle @brovelliobrien.

Pregnant Cat Checklist: 3 Signs Your Cat is Pregnant

The presence of a pregnant cat is a source of great excitement. Whatever your level of experience with cat pregnancy or inexperience with cat pregnancy, this checklist will assist you in keeping your cat and potential kittens happy and healthy. Because your house will need to be prepared, vet visits will need to be scheduled, and your cat will want additional attention, it is critical to be able to recognize the symptoms that your cat may be expecting as soon as possible.

How to tell if a cat is pregnant

First and foremost, is your cat expecting a child? For the majority of pet owners, spotting a pregnant cat is easier said than done. However, rather than leaving things to chance, it is always a good idea to check to see whether your cat is anticipating a visitor. The arrival of a litter of cute kittens is certainly better than the prospect of coming home to an empty house, but a surprise pregnancy is stressful and emotional for both sets of pawrents. If you’ve had a child of your own, you’re probably aware of how much your body and mind change throughout the course of the pregnancy.

Finding these changes in the mother and her kittens as soon as possible is the greatest way to ensure a good pregnancy for both the mother and her kittens.

Fortunately, with all of the physical and mental changes taking place, there are a number of warning signals to look out for, including the following:

Changes in appearance

When a cat is pregnant, the most prominent and immediately observable indicators are the physical changes that occur in her look. She may notice that her nipples are becoming darker and more swollen as she prepares to nurse her children. This usually occurs between two and three weeks into her pregnancy. Furthermore, you may see that she has gained weight, particularly around her abdomen, which is otherwise unexplainable. In addition to gaining roughly 1-2kg depending on how many kittens they are carrying, pregnant cats can also increase weight, which should be evident if you look at her body form from the side.

If your cat’s stomach has expanded but you do not believe she is pregnant, take her to the veterinarian immediately since this might indicate an illness.

Changes in behaviour

Cats that are pregnant or nursing are referred to as ‘queens,’ and they surely live up to their moniker! She will begin to sleep more throughout the day, and she may appear to have less energy or a desire to move about as a result. Your queen may also begin to act more maternal and dependent on you, requesting additional attention from you — while she is awake, of course. The odds are good that you have a pregnant cat if you find your cat rolling around on the floor and becoming quite loud. If you are a seasoned pawrent who has owned your cat for a long period of time, you may be able to detect when your cat is in heat.

Most of the time, you’ll notice her being more loving toward others and walking a little differently than usual.

Changes in eating habits

Another symptom of pregnancy is a change in a woman’s eating pattern. This is dependent on the cat in question. Your queen may go off her food and refuse to eat for a period of time, or she may proceed to consume anything and anything she comes across. Regardless, any significant change in her eating patterns might indicate that she is pregnant, so it’s vital to keep track of how much, how often, and what kind of food she is consuming. Pregnant cats can experience morning sickness and cravings in the same way as pregnant humans do.

Don’t get too worked up over it.

You should take her to the vet, however, if any of the following symptoms occur:

• She doesn’t eat for a period of more than three days. She is suffering from a severe illness. She is consuming everything and everything except than her meals in large quantities.

How long is a cat pregnant?

Considering that cat pregnancies normally last between 65 and 69 days, there is no time to spare! Once you have determined whether or not your furry family is expanding, you can begin planning and preparing for the big event. Despite the fact that it’s crucial to keep an eye out for physical, behavioural, and nutritional changes in your cat, the only way to tell for certain whether or not she’s pregnant is to take her to the veterinarian. They can do an ultrasound to identify whether or not she is pregnant, and they can typically tell how many kittens she is carrying based on the results of the scan.

So, as soon as you detect any of the changes listed above, schedule an appointment for her to get a pregnancy confirmation test done right away.

Caring for your pregnant cat

It’s reasonable that your queen may demand a little more love and attention now that her body is beginning to undergo significant transformations. She may find it difficult to leave the house as much as she used to, and you may notice that she seeks out quiet time in order to recharge her batteries. If that’s the case, it’s better to let her handle things. It’s likely that she’s starting to nest and looking for the most quiet location in which to bring her babies into the world.

Feeding your pregnant cat

Your queen will not only be ‘eating for two,’ but she will also be feeding a litter of 4-6 kittens, on average. Due to the large number of mouths she must feed, it goes without saying that she will require a bit extra food in her bowl each day — food intake might treble during this period of life. Throughout the day, she’ll require little meals to be fed numerous times throughout the day, and she’ll need to have access to fresh water at all times. Leaving dry cat food out for her to munch on throughout her pregnancy is a good idea.

• Your pregnant cat will require an increased intake of protein and energy.
• Besides providing more calories, kitten chow also contains the nutrients that your queen requires to keep herself and her kittens healthy.
• And, most importantly, keep those poop issues under control.
• After her kittens have been weaned off her milk, you should continue to give them kitten formula until they are no longer nursing.

Cleaning up

Despite the fact that you worked carefully to house train your cat, she has recently begun to create messes on the floor. Isn’t it a pain in the neck? It is not appropriate to chastise your queen for having a miscarriage or two during the latter stages of pregnancy, though. She just can’t seem to stop herself. The increased strain on her bladder may make it more difficult for her to get to the litter box in time. During the final few weeks, her nipples may also begin to enlarge and spill milk, putting her life at risk.

Make sure you’re routinely changing her bed coverings to ensure she has a warm, clean, and comfy secure area.

Keeping your pregnant cat safe

If your cat is an outdoor cat, you’ll want to bring him or her indoors as soon as possible after the 6th week of pregnancy to keep him or her safe and secure.

Preparing for the big day

In what seems like a blink of an eye, your cherished feline will be on her way to becoming a mother herself.

You may have spent weeks, if not months, preparing for the birth of your child. Some people, though, may be taken aback by the news. You should be aware of a few critical indicators that your queen is in or about to go into labor:

• It is normal for your pregnant cat to look restless or worried approximately 24-48 hours before the delivery of her kittens. She may pace around her nesting place. It is possible that she will begin to meow and cry out more frequently than normal. Don’t be concerned. She’s only informing you that the kittens are on their way
• Heat changes– Her body temperature will drop below 38°C around 24 hours before giving birth, so have a thermometer on standby at all times. Increased appetite– In the weeks leading up to delivery, your cat may have an increase in appetite or may stop eating completely.

In the 24-48 hours before the birth, your pregnant cat may look restless or agitated, pacing about her nesting place; this is normal. She may begin to meow and cry out more than she normally does in order to communicate with you. Take comfort in knowing that everything will be OK! All she’s doing is informing you that the kittens are on the way. Temperature changes– Her body temperature will drop below 38°C around 24 hours before giving delivery, therefore keep a thermometer on hand; It is possible for your cat to lose her appetite and perhaps stop eating completely in the weeks leading up to giving birth.

Let her lead the way

Make sure your queen is in a secure and comfortable environment when the time comes, whether you want to call a vet or you feel confident handling things yourself. A number of pet pawrents have reported that their kittens were successfully delivered. A veterinarian should be on call, however, in the event that things does not go according to plan. The expectant mother will most likely begin strolling around the house, seeking for a suitable nesting spot in which to give birth. While you may create a quiet nook for her with a paper lined box, it’s crucial to let her lead the way on this one and not try to take her from her comfy location.

Cats are known to prefer an enclosed location for giving birth; pick a model with low sides to allow her to go in and out with ease when giving birth.

Create a peaceful environment

Our understanding is that this is a really exciting occasion for the entire family. Every auntie, sister, brother, and friend would do anything to be there to see this incredible event first-hand. However, your queen’s needs must come first, and she need a calm, serene setting in which she may feel protected. The children and other pets must thus be kept out of the room during the delivery, whether they like it or not, and you must ensure that your home is as peaceful and serene as possible. You should wait until your new family members have had a chance to settle in and relax before introducing them to the kittens.

Take a step back

In the midst of all the excitement and emotions surrounding the delivery, it’s tempting to get carried away and believe that you must assist your cat in some manner. There is, however, no requirement for you to participate in the birth in any kind. Mum always has the finest advice. Her mothering instincts will take over, allowing her to safely give birth to her children alone. Your cat will initially endure a number of intense stomach contractions, after which you may see some vaginal discharge from her genital area.

• Delivering each kitten can take anything from 5 minutes to up to half an hour each kitten, depending on how many are being delivered at the same time.
• It is necessary for you to go in here and gently open the membrane with a cloth in order to allow the kittens to breathe if she does not do so.
• If you have any concerns about any of these processes, consult with your veterinarian before the big day.
• Preparation will assist you in ensuring that your pregnant cat is secure and comfortable throughout her pregnancy and after she has given birth.
• Allow them to settle down for a while before jumping in with hugs for these little bundles of joy.

The new mom may become very protective if anybody comes too close to her cats, so allow them all some time to get used to one other. Only after all of the kittens have been born and mom is calm and content should you relocate all of the cats to a clean and comfy environment of their own making.

Pregnant after-care

You are responsible for these new bundles of joy for at least the first few weeks of their lives, regardless of whether you want to retain them all or adopt them out to loving new homes. Bringing a new kitten home may be a frightening experience for any new pawrent, but the new mother will have all of the instincts and nutrition necessary to ensure that her offspring grow and thrive. Kittens are not ready to be weaned onto solid food until they have been nursing for around 4 weeks. Check out our page on kitten feeding for additional information on this important milestone in their lives.

Since your here, you might also like to read:

1. What is the age of your cat in human years
2. The unvarnished truth about high-quality cat food
3. Is it possible for cats to drink milk? Cat hairballs: what they are, what causes them, and how to treat them When are kittens allowed to go outside

How do I know if my cat is pregnant?

In principle, a healthy mother means healthy kittens, so it’s a good idea to make sure your cat is as fit as a fiddle before she becomes pregnant (which is easier said than done if you don’t want to breed your cat). Making sure your feline companion is up to date on all of her vaccines is a fantastic place to start in general since a mother’s immunity is passed on to her kittens through her milk is an excellent place to start. If your cat becomes pregnant when her vaccinations are due, or if you are unclear whether or not she is up to date on her vaccinations, it is always advisable to consult with your veterinarian as soon as possible.

Generally speaking, cats may still have healthy pregnancies if they are not vaccinated, however certain additional measures may be necessary.

The same may be said for flea control.

Please make sure you have appropriate insurance for cats for your kittens so that they are all insured from the time they are 8 weeks old.

Cleanliness and bathroom habits

In the latter stages of your tabby’s pregnancy, there will be a few more things you will need to keep an eye out for and assist her with. Even though they might be a little disgusting, they are an unavoidable aspect of caring for your pregnant cat. As a result of her increasing weight and pressure on her bladder, your cat may find herself unable to make it to the litter tray in time on certain occasions. It’s sad, but now is not the time to chastise her; she truly cannot help herself. If you spot any little blunders, simply wipe them up and continue on your way.

She may also be leaking milk as she gets closer to giving birth. Just be sure to clean it up and wash her blankets so that she has a clean, warm, and pleasant place to lie down when this happens.

How do you prepare for a pregnant cat to give birth?

When it comes to assisting in the preparation of your cat for delivery, you can be scared, enthusiastic, or perplexed. Rest assured that kittens have been born in relative safety in the cat world since the beginning of their species, but there are a few things you can do to assist guarantee a smooth delivery and prepare yourself for what’s to come in the weeks leading up to birth. Whether you’re curious about how to determine if your cat is in labor, you may learn more about the symptoms and stages of labor by visiting this page.

Preparing yourself mentally

Yes, this is a critical aspect in ensuring a safe kitten birth experience. If you are under stress, the mother cat will pick up on it. Maintain your composure no matter what occurs. Throughout your pregnancy, study up on what may be expected to happen during the delivery to ensure that there are no unpleasant shocks. Remember that you should not have to physically assist your cat in delivering her babies; instead, you should take a step back and supervise, keeping an eye out for any signals that she is getting into difficulty.

How Can I Tell If My Cat Is Pregnant?

The possibility of your cat being pregnant exists if she has been in heat lately and has had access to an intact (unneutered) male cat during this time. A pregnant queen will experience both physical and psychological changes, which will become more noticeable approximately three weeks after giving birth to her offspring. Cats have a gestation period that ranges from 64 to 66 days. Average gestation time is 63 days (nine weeks), which is considered to be normal. Illustration by Maritsa Patrinos, titled “The Spruce.”

Physical Changes in a Pregnant Cat

Keep an eye out for the following indications in your cat’s body that indicate pregnancy:

• The cessation of heat cycles may be the first symptom that a cat is pregnant that you notice. If a cat has been going through heat cycles every 10 days to two weeks for a while and then stops, it is likely that she has become pregnant. Nipples swell and become rosier in color as a result of this: A pregnant cat’s “pinking-up” is referred to as such by breeders, and it may be the first visible symptom of pregnancy that you see. Increased appetite: A pregnant cat will exhibit an increased interest in food as the pregnancy progresses. After all, a pregnant cat is responsible for not just feeding herself but also numerous fetuses. Weight increase: The majority of pregnant queens will gain between 2 and 4 pounds of body weight throughout the course of their pregnancy. Vomiting: Pregnant queens, like human mothers-to-be, may have a few bouts of “morning sickness” throughout their pregnancy. This is not necessarily a cause for concern in and of itself, but if the vomiting persists or becomes more regular, call your veterinarian for assistance. The abdomen of a pregnant cat will begin to grow visibly around the fifth week of the animal’s pregnancy. It will continue to grow until the time comes to give birth.

Personality Changes in a Pregnant Cat

Pregnancy is also associated with changes in personality and mood, as follows:

• Increased affection: Your cat may become more loving than usual and may come to you more frequently to seek your attention. Please, please, please give it to her. Increased sleeping time: Many pregnant queens will sleep for longer hours per day than they did before they became pregnant.

Clinical Diagnosis of Pregnancy in Cats

Depending on whether your queen has had regular veterinary treatment and whether or not she has previously displayed symptoms of pregnancy, it may not be essential to get a formal diagnosis from a veterinarian. However, it is a good idea to get your cat examined by a veterinarian to ensure that she is in excellent health.

• Examining the Cat’s Abdomen: By palpating and gently pushing on the cat’s abdomen, your veterinarian may be able to feel the fetuses in her belly throughout her pregnancy. This usually occurs between the 17th and 25th day of pregnancy
• However, it can occur at any time. Abdominal Ultrasound of Your Cat: Ultrasounds of the cat’s abdomen can reveal babies as early as the second week of pregnancy, and heartbeats can be found as late as the third week of pregnancy. Radiographs (X-rays): When your cat is farther advanced in her pregnancy, your veterinarian can take a radiograph of her belly to assess the number of kittens she is carrying. A little quantity of radiation has been emitted, and it is not expected to be hazardous to the kittens or their mother. The spines and skulls of kittens may be seen on x-rays after 42 days of pregnancy
• The spines and skulls of kittens are evident after 42 days of pregnancy.

If your resident or rescued cat is truly found to be pregnant, you will need to make some major decisions soon after. If you decide to spay her and prevent the pregnancy from progressing to term, you should do it as soon as possible after finding out she is pregnant. If not, be prepared to assist with the care of the kittens and the placement of all of them in loving homes.

Signs Your Cat Will Give Birth Soon

If your cat begins to actively labor, try not to disturb her while she is doing so. Keep an eye on her from a safe distance to ensure she does not become distressed. There are several signals that kittens are on their way:

• Activity related to nesting: As the time for delivery approaches, your pregnant cat may seek out peaceful, private areas where the birth can take place. In most cases, this happens up to two days before labor, although it can start as early as a few hours before labor. Restlessness or anxiety: Approximately 24 to 48 hours before childbirth, the pregnant queen may appear restless or nervous. She may come and leave from her nesting spot in a pacing motion, almost as if she were pacing
• Apart from her restless and pacing, the pregnant queen may meow and scream out more than normal. Within 12 to 36 hours of labor, your cat’s body temperature will drop below 100 degrees Fahrenheit (the typical temperature range is between 100.5 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit). A decrease in appetite is likely to have occurred throughout your pregnant queen’s pregnancy, as she will have had a strong appetite during her pregnancy. As she gets closer to giving birth, she will notice a significant drop in her appetite. Cat Licking Her Vulva:As labor approaches, your cat will begin licking her vulva to clear a small discharge that has developed. Because she will want to keep the area clean, you will most likely not notice this discharge.

Images courtesy of ManuelVelasco / Getty Images If you have any reason to believe your pet is unwell, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Always consult your veterinarian for health-related inquiries, since they have evaluated your pet and are familiar with the pet’s medical history, and they can provide the most appropriate suggestions for your pet.

How to Tell if a Cat is Pregnant

Documentation Download Documentation Download Documentation When it comes to cats, the average gestation period is around 9 weeks, and a pregnant cat will begin to exhibit telltale physical and behavioral changes shortly after she becomes pregnant. If you know how to recognize these changes in your cat, you can decide whether or not she is truly pregnant. It goes without saying that the only way to know for certain is to take your cat to the veterinarian. It is recommended that you spay or neuter your cat unless you are a professional cat breeder.

1. 1 Find out if your cat is a fertile female. You should be cautious if your cat appears to be fertile and has recently been in heat
2. Otherwise, she may be pregnant.

• When the days grow longer and the weather grows warmer, female domestic cats become more sexually active, which normally occurs between the months of spring and fall. It is possible for a female cat to begin her estrus cycle (to go into heat) as the weather begins to warm up and she has attained around 80% of her adult weight. Accordingly, it is possible for cats to get pregnant as early as four months of age in exceptional circumstances

• 2 Keep an eye out for signs of mating activity. When a cat is in heat, she exhibits distinct behavioral changes intended to attract a mate. These changes will endure for around four to six days.

• A cat preparing to go into heat may first show indications of restlessness, become more loving, begin making low calls, and have an increased appetite
• But, after a few days, these signals will disappear. Whenever a female cat is in heat, she will begin “calling,” which involves meowing or mewling repeatedly and insistently, as well as losing her appetite. A cat in heat will become much more affectionate towards people, will roll around, and will prop her hindquarters up in the air while treading her back paws and holding her tail to the side
• A cat in heat will become much more affectionate towards people
• A cat in heat will become much more affectionate towards

• 3 Recognize the ramifications of a cat going into heat. If your cat has gone into heat, the consequences can be far more severe than just strange behavior: your cat may have become pregnant as a result of the situation.

• If you discover that your cat has been in heat recently, pregnancy is a distinct possibility
• However, it is not guaranteed. After being in heat, a cat will undergo a “quiet period,” which will last around 8-10 days and during which her activity will become more subdued. Upon completion of the calm phase, your cat will go into heat for the second time, and will continue to go into heat during the period between April and September. Have your cat spayed as soon as it is safe to do so in order to avoid her from going into heat and/or becoming pregnant by accident.

1. 1 Examine your nipples for signs of enlargement. The nipples of a queen will “pink up,” or get red and swollen, about 15-18 days into the pregnancy.

• During this time, her breasts may swell and she may produce milky fluid. Increased nipples can also be an indication of being in heat, therefore it’s important to remember that expanding nipples aren’t necessarily suggestive of pregnancy.

• 2 Keep an eye out for a distinctive “burro” form. If you look at a pregnant cat from the side, she may appear a little swaybacked, with a somewhat round and protruding abdomen.

• Many pregnant female cats take on the form of a burro later in their pregnancy. The weight of your cat will be distributed across her body, including her neck and legs, rather than just in her midsection
• If your cat is just overweight

• 3 Pay attention to any nesting activity. You’ll notice that your cat begins to exhibit nesting tendencies a few days before she’s due to give birth as she prepares for the arrival of her litter.

• In a quiet spot such as a closet, your cat may decide to begin arranging blankets, towels, and other fabrics in order to create a space where she may give birth to her babies. It is important to take your cat to the veterinarian as soon as possible if you detect nesting behavior and you were not previously aware that your cat was pregnant.

1. 1 If you suspect your cat is pregnant, take her to the veterinarian right away. The veterinarian will be able to confirm the pregnancy and provide you with advice on how to care for the cat. Inquire with your veterinarian about how to care for the queen and how to prepare for the delivery.

• Have the queen’s stomach examined by a veterinarian. In most cases, an expert veterinarian may feel the embryos after around 17-25 days. Leave the poking for embryos to the veterinarian, since your prodding might result in a miscarriage.

• 2 Inquire about getting an ultrasound. However, if your veterinarian is unclear whether or not your cat is pregnant after feeling her for embryos, he or her can use an ultrasound to establish whether or not she is pregnant and, if so, how many kittens she will have.

• An ultrasound will be able to identify fetal heartbeats as early as 20 days into the pregnancy, according to the veterinarian.

• 3 Instruct the veterinarian to take radiographs (X-rays). It is possible to examine the bones of the kittens using an x-ray when the kittens are roughly 45 days old, which confirms that they are pregnant and that there are a total of six kittens in the litter.

• The veterinarian will normally do two x-rays in order to obtain views of the abdomen and count kittens, as well as to search for any potential abnormalities with the animal. The queen or the kittens will not be harmed by these x-rays. An X-ray is more accurate than an ultrasound when it comes to counting fetuses, albeit it is still not 100 percent correct.

• 4 If your cat is pregnant, avoid administering immunizations, deworming, or administering medicines to her. When the queen is pregnant, vaccines, in particular, may pose a threat to her or her kittens’ health.

• Prior to administering any treatments, including dewormer, to the queen or, after she gives birth, to the kittens, consult with your veterinarian.

• (5) Increase her calorie intake throughout the final few weeks of her pregnancy. As she gets closer to giving birth, you may notice that your cat is taking more food and increasing weight.

• Due to the rapid development of the kittens during the last third of pregnancy, you should give your cat a growth (kitten) formula diet to ensure that it receives enough calories.

• 6 During the last several weeks of pregnancy, keep the queen confined to her chambers. Maintaining your cat’s confinement will help to ensure that she does not locate a spot outside to give birth to the kittens when she draws near to giving birth.

• In order to make things easier for her, you could set up a nest or whelping box within the house. Set up a box in a warm, dry, and quiet location in the house, and line it with newspaper, an old towel, or a blanket
• Place your cat’s food, drink, and litter box in a convenient location, and encourage her to sleep in the litter box in the days coming up to delivery.

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• QuestionHow long does a cat remain pregnant in order to reproduce? A veterinarian with over 30 years of expertise in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice, Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS, is a member of the British Veterinary Medical Association. Veterinary medicine and surgery were among the subjects she studied when she graduated with honors from the University of Glasgow in 1987. She has been employed at the same animal clinic in her hometown for more than two decades now. Answer from a veterinarian expert
• Question When cats become pregnant, do they become aggressive? A veterinarian with over 30 years of expertise in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice, Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS, is a member of the British Veterinary Medical Association. Veterinary medicine and surgery were among the subjects she studied when she graduated with honors from the University of Glasgow in 1987. She has been employed at the same animal clinic in her hometown for more than two decades now. An Answer from a Veterinarian Unlocking this expert answer will help to support wikiHow. No, however your cat may become protective of her babies once they are born if she is a mother cat. The mother cat will become protective of her kittens after she has given birth to them and may turn violent if she believes they are being endangered. Aggression, on the other hand, is not typical during pregnancy
• Question Can red nipples be a sign that a cat is about to come into heat? A veterinarian with over 30 years of expertise in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice, Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS, is a member of the British Veterinary Medical Association. Veterinary medicine and surgery were among the subjects she studied when she graduated with honors from the University of Glasgow in 1987. She has been employed at the same animal clinic in her hometown for more than two decades now. Question
• VeterinarianExpert Response
• QuestionMy cat has been eating a lot and going into her own small area, and her behavior has become a little strange. Is it possible that she is pregnant? A veterinarian with over 30 years of expertise in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice, Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS, is a member of the British Veterinary Medical Association. Veterinary medicine and surgery were among the subjects she studied when she graduated with honors from the University of Glasgow in 1987. She has been employed at the same animal clinic in her hometown for more than two decades now. Contribute to wikiHow by unlocking this expert answer provided by a veterinarian. Although your cat’s behavior might be explained by pregnancy and nesting, the fact that she is doing these things does not necessarily indicate that she is pregnant. The possibility of her becoming pregnant is eliminated because she has not made contact with a male cat in its whole
• Question My cat appears to be in the process of giving birth. What is the best way to be certain? A veterinarian with over 30 years of expertise in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice, Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS, is a member of the British Veterinary Medical Association. Veterinary medicine and surgery were among the subjects she studied when she graduated with honors from the University of Glasgow in 1987. She has been employed at the same animal clinic in her hometown for more than two decades now. Contribute to wikiHow by unlocking this expert answer provided by a veterinarian. You can look for indicators of pregnancy such as a bloated tummy and enlarged mammary glands, but bear in mind that you won’t be able to detect these signals until the third trimester of your pregnancy. Additionally, when your cat has been pregnant for 28 days, you can take her to your veterinarian, who will be able to identify her pregnancy. A veterinarian can examine your cat’s stomach or do an ultrasound scan to check for kittens
• For how many weeks does a cat remain pregnant? A veterinarian with over 30 years of expertise in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice, Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS, is a member of the British Veterinary Medical Association. Veterinary medicine and surgery were among the subjects she studied when she graduated with honors from the University of Glasgow in 1987. She has been employed at the same animal clinic in her hometown for more than two decades now. Answer from a veterinarian expert
• Question Is it possible for a cat to be in heat and pregnant at the same time? A veterinarian with over 30 years of expertise in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice, Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS, is a member of the British Veterinary Medical Association. Veterinary medicine and surgery were among the subjects she studied when she graduated with honors from the University of Glasgow in 1987. She has been employed at the same animal clinic in her hometown for more than two decades now. Answer from a veterinarian expert
• Question Is it possible to prevent a cat from becoming pregnant? A veterinarian with over 30 years of expertise in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice, Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS, is a member of the British Veterinary Medical Association. Veterinary medicine and surgery were among the subjects she studied when she graduated with honors from the University of Glasgow in 1987. She has been employed at the same animal clinic in her hometown for more than two decades now. Contribute to wikiHow by unlocking this expert answer provided by a veterinarian. There is currently no FDA-approved (and hence proven safe) medicine for inducing abortion in cats
• Nevertheless, an injection of prostaglandins is regarded to be safe and successful in the vast majority of instances. Nevertheless, spaying a pregnant cat is a viable choice, even in the latter stages of pregnancy, and is often the preferred option for many people who want to avoid a repeat pregnancy.

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• In order to reduce overpopulation, millions of homeless cats are slaughtered each year. Please consider having your cat spayed in order to avoid adding to this issue. Spay your cat when she is 5 to 6 months old to avoid the possibility of her becoming pregnant
• And In most cases, cats do not suffer “morning sickness,” so if your cat begins to vomit often or exhibits other indications of illness, take her to the veterinarian right once. Some vets will offer to “remove the pregnancy” or spay a pregnant cat if the cat is not neutered. Some doctors do not advocate performing this beyond a specific point in the pregnancy’s advancement, while others do this procedure at any moment throughout the pregnancy.

About This Article

Summary of the ArticleXTo determine whether or not a cat is pregnant, look for swollen nipples. Beginning about 15-18 days into the pregnancy, the cat’s nipples will become pink or scarlet and swell up significantly. When she is pregnant, her back may begin to sway and her abdomen may begin to swell. A pregnant cat will begin to exhibit indications of nesting a few days before she gives birth, at which point she will begin looking for a peaceful area to give birth to her babies. If you have any reason to believe your cat may be pregnant, take her to the veterinarian for confirmation and guidance on maternity care.

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When planning to have kittens, it’s vital to realize that your cat and her litter will have expectations of you that you will need to be prepared to meet. Everything you need to know about expecting cats has been compiled for your convenience to assist you in supporting your pet during her pregnancy and labor.

Cat pregnancy

Cats, like humans, have times of peak fertility during which they are most likely to become pregnant – this is referred to as being in season or being in heat. The reproductive cycle of a cat occurs around once every three weeks, which means your cat has lots of chances of becoming pregnant. Our recommendation is that you neuter your cat before the start of her first season if you want to avoid an unexpected litter of kittens. After that time, she can become pregnant quite readily. Because raising a litter can be unpleasant for your cat and expensive for you, we urge that you leave breeding to the professionals if at all feasible.

How long is a cat pregnant

It is usual for a cat to remain pregnant for between 63 and 67 days, however it can be difficult to determine how long a cat has been pregnant for. The gestation time of a cat can range from as little as 61 days to as much as 72 days in length. In many cases, your cat (queen) will not exhibit any visible signs of pregnancy until she is a few weeks into her pregnancy. If you suspect that your cat is pregnant, you should take her to the veterinarian to be sure.

After two or three weeks, there are numerous physical symptoms that you should be able to detect if your cat is pregnant. If you are wondering how to tell if your cat is pregnant, there are several signs that you should be able to detect.

How to tell if your cat is pregnant

• You may notice that your cat’s nipples get swollen and crimson after roughly 15-18 days of pregnancy
• This is referred to as ‘pinking-up.’ Your pregnant queen may have a stage of vomiting that is similar to that experienced by people experiencing morning sickness. If you observe that her vomiting is becoming more regular, or if she appears to be unwell in any other way, call your veterinarian. If you touch your queen’s stomach, you run the danger of injuring her or her unborn kittens, which is not worth the risk. There might be other factors contributing to belly swelling, so keep an eye out for any indications of disease in your cat and visit your veterinarian if you are concerned. Pregnant women will gain between 1-2 kg (depending on how many kittens she is carrying) during the course of their pregnancy
• This is a significant indication that she is pregnant. During the final stages of pregnancy, queens tend to have a greater appetite, which will also contribute to her weight gain. The presence of worms or disease might also result in increased hunger, so see your veterinarian to be sure of the cause. During pregnancy, your cat may exhibit more maternal behavior, such as purring more and requesting more fuss and attention from you. Some veterinarians can detect a cat’s pregnancy via ultrasonography, which may be done as early as 15 days into the cat’s pregnancy. By the 40th day of your cat’s pregnancy, your veterinarian may be able to give you an estimate of how many kittens she is expected to have. Be aware that during cat pregnancy, a larger kitten might obscure other smaller kittens in the womb, leading to the possibility of having more kittens than you anticipated.

Is My Cat Pregnant? How to Find Out and When to Expect Kittens

When you were anticipating your own bundle of joy, it’s possible that you devoured a stack of books. You may not be aware of what occurs when your cat becomes pregnant. Make sure you don’t overfill Fluffy’s bowl with pickles and ice cream. Simply treat them as though they are the queen that they truly are – figuratively speaking. ‘Queening’ is the process through which a mother cat prepares to give birth to kittens. A female cat can get pregnant as early as 4 months of age, unless she has been spayed to prevent this from happening.

The pregnancy of a cat lasts around 63-65 days.

Are They Pregnant?

Making an appointment with your veterinarian is the most effective approach to find out. In a few methods, they can confirm that kittens are on the way, as well as obtain an approximation of how many there will be:

• When it comes to assessing your cat’s stomach, feeling his or her tummy is sometimes beneficial but not always correct. After the 16th day of pregnancy, an ultrasound can confirm the pregnancy. The number of kittens your cat is carrying cannot be determined by ultrasound. However, although X-rays may be used to estimate the number of kittens to be expected, they are not always precise, and they should not be performed until your cat is at least 42 days pregnant – and in most cases not until she is 55 days

There are a couple of indicators that you can pick up on as well. The cat’s tummy will grow in size around 30 days after they have mated. Another symptom that emerges as the pregnancy progresses, around 2 to 3 weeks after they conceive, is the enlargement and reddening of their nipples (also called “pinking up”).

Caring for Your Pregnant Queen

It’s extremely unusual, but your cat may experience “morning sickness” during the early stages of pregnancy, which manifests itself as a lack of appetite or vomiting. If this continues to recur, take them to the veterinarian. They may have indicators of weariness as a result of the spike in hormones and changes to their uterus. After the first several weeks have passed, this period will gradually go away.

Continued

Your cat, like many other females throughout the animal kingdom who are anticipating a bun in the oven (or, in the case of a cat, an average of 4 buns each litter), may require additional food and energy while they are pregnant. As their pregnancy draws to a conclusion, they’ll consume around 1.5 times the amount of food they would normally consume, so make sure they have continual access to their typical diet. Your veterinarian will most likely recommend that you give your pregnant cat kitten food or food that has been designated for pregnant and nursing cats throughout her pregnancy as well as throughout the period during which she will nurse her tiny child.

If your pregnant cat is due for their usual vaccinations, deworming/flea treatment, or medicine, consult with your veterinarian beforehand to ensure that the treatment is safe for them throughout their pregnancy.

Tips to Prepare for the Big Day

Prepare your house to be a welcoming environment for the imminent baby. If you typically allow your cat to go outside, you should cease doing so in order to prevent them from going into labor during one of their walkabouts. You may notice that your cat is acting differently around 2 weeks before the due date, which is normal when they transition into nesting mode. You may assist them by scanning your house for a suitable birthing location for them. Use newspapers, old towels, and soft blankets to cover a medium-sized box with a low entrance to provide a comfortable environment for the mother and her kittens.

Allow your pregnant cat to visit it on a regular basis before giving birth to ensure that they become accustomed to the environment and feel comfortable.

They will give birth anywhere they wish, whether it’s in a laundry basket, behind the garbage can, or in the back of your wardrobe.

Continued

As soon as you realize that your cat has entered nesting mode, take them to the veterinarian for their last pregnancy check-up. The veterinarian will provide you with more information on how to prepare for the delivery, check on the mother and kittens’ health, and advise you on what to do in the event of an emergency during the delivery. There are two indicators that the big day is approaching: Cats often stop eating 24 hours before giving birth, and their body temperatures drop to 100 degrees Fahrenheit.