How to tell if your cat is pregnant

As a cat owner, it might be difficult to tell if your feline friend is expecting. Early indicators of pregnancy in cats are subtle, but understanding what to look for will help you offer the best possible care for your pregnant cat.

Unspayed female cats can become pregnant from as early as 4 months old. Gestation is approximately 65 days, or 9 weeks but can vary slightly. However, symptoms may not show for some weeks. This month, we'll look at the physical and behavioural indications of pregnancy, how vets confirm it, and what you should do if you suspect your cat is pregnant.

Recognising the Signs of Pregnancy:

1. Behavioural Changes:

Increased Affection: Your cat may crave more attention and become more loving.
Nesting Behaviour: As the pregnancy advances, she may begin looking for a peaceful, safe area to give birth.

2. Physical Changes

Several physical changes occur as a cat’s pregnancy advances:

• Nipple Enlargement and Pinkness: Around three weeks into pregnancy, a cat's nipples may get larger and pinker, a condition known as "pinking up."
• Weight Gain: You may notice a gradual rise in your cat's weight, particularly around the abdomen.
• Increased Appetite: Pregnant cats frequently eat more than usual to assist their developing offspring.
• Morning Sickness: Similar to humans, some cats experience nausea and vomiting during the early stages of pregnancy.
• Sleeping More: Your cat's body will require more rest while it works to nurture the growing kittens.

3. Nesting Behaviour

Your cat will begin to nest as the due date approaches. She may look for a peaceful, secluded place to give birth. You might find her rearranging bedding or looking for cosy places.

How do vets confirm pregnancy?

If you see these symptoms and suspect your cat is pregnant, you should see a veterinarian for confirmation. To diagnose pregnancy, veterinarians employ a variety of methods, including:

1. Palpations: A veterinarian can gently palpate the cat's abdomen to check for developing foetuses between the 17th and 25th days of pregnancy.

2. Ultrasonic: An ultrasound can establish pregnancy as early as two weeks and is also used to monitor foetal wellbeing. Heartbeats are usually detectable by the third week.

3. X-rays: X-rays can reveal the number of kittens your cat is carrying, usually after the 42nd day of pregnancy, when the kittens' spines and skulls are visible.

4. Pregnancy Tests: While not widely used, pregnancy tests for cats identify certain hormones. These tests require a blood sample and are less common if alternative diagnostic procedures are available.

Next Steps If Your Cat Is Pregnant:

1. Veterinary care: Regular vet appointments are essential during your cat's pregnancy. Your veterinarian will monitor her health and the kittens' development, offer nutritional advice, and discuss any necessary immunisations or treatments.

2. Nutrition: Feed your cat a high-quality, protein-rich diet designed for pregnant and lactating cats. A natural, raw diet is particularly good. Kitten food is sometimes recommended due to its high caloric content, even after the birth of the kittens when the mother may be lacking certain nutrients and needs to build up her fat content.

Make sure she has access to fresh water at all times.

3. Comfortable environment: Create a relaxing and pleasant environment for your cat. Create a nesting space with clean, soft bedding in a quiet location away from the noise and activity of the house.

4. Monitor health: Examine your cat's weight, eating, and overall behaviour. Take note of any changes that are noticeable and discuss them with your veterinarian if you have any concerns.

5. Prepare for the birth: As your cat's due date approaches, start preparing a birth box. Place a large cardboard box with nice bedding in a quiet, private space. Familiarise yourself with labour signs and keep your veterinarian's contact information on hand in case issues arise.

Understanding a pregnancy in your cat entails studying physical and behavioural changes, confirming the pregnancy with your veterinarian, and giving necessary care during pregnancy. With careful attention and preparation, you can ensure that your feline friend has a healthy and safe pregnancy. If you suspect your cat is pregnant, make an appointment with a veterinarian to get precise information and advice customised to your cat's individual requirements.

Recognising the signs of pregnancy and understanding the actions to follow will allow you to support your cat during this exciting but sometimes difficult period, guaranteeing both her and her kittens' health. Once born, the kittens should ideally stay with the mother for around 12 weeks before going to a new home.