Are you concerned your cat is pregnant? Look out for these symptoms.
One of the most common concerns cat owners have is whether or not their cat is pregnant. Cats typically become fertile at four months old and can have kittens for the rest of their lives; they do not have menopause like people do. Overall, their pregnancy lasts for around 63 days, or 9 weeks. If you are wondering about your own pet, you can review these signs below. If you need a trusted vet in the Baltimore area, Everhart Veterinary Medicine is here for you and your cat!
Signs a Cat Is Pregnant
Heat Cycle Ceases
A female cat will usually go into heat every ten days or so. You might have noticed a pattern. If your cat stops going into heat after some time, it could be that she is expecting.
Appetite Changes
At some point during her pregnancy, your pet’s appetite will increase. She is now feeding herself and at least several unborn kittens, so you might need to add an additional 50% helping to her meals.
Cat Gains Weight
Naturally, your cat will gain a little weight from the litter. You can expect her to gain about 2-4 pounds.
Stomach Looks Bloated
Different feline conditions could have an enlarged stomach as a symptom, but of course, it applies to pregnancy, too. Be gentle with the stomach, as pressing it could cause injury or even death to the unborn.
Nipples Enlarge & Color
At some point, your cat’s nipples will enlarge and pink up in color as her body prepares to feed newborn kittens. You might have to look closely if your cat has lots of fur.
Cat Sleeps More
Cats are crepuscular, meaning that they sleep most during the day and night and are most awake at low-light hours, such as twilight. Your cat will become more tired during pregnancy and sleep more than usual.
Nesting Habits Appear
Your cat might also begin to create a “nest” in which to give birth, a quiet, secluded place that she furnishes with blankets and defends from others. If your cat does display this behavior in an undesirable location, move her nesting materials to her box or cage so you can monitor her better.
What to Do If a Cat Is Pregnant
There are multiple ways to confirm that a cat is pregnant, such as an X-Ray or an ultrasound. If you are certain your cat is expecting, you can prepare by monitoring her birthing site and her health.
Make plans on what to do with the kittens after they are born, such as arranging for adoptions.
If you want to prevent your cat from having future pregnancies, schedule an appointment for spaying as soon as possible, as cats can become pregnant two weeks after giving birth.
Trust the Care of Your Pet to the Professionals at Everhart Veterinary Medicine!
At Everhart Veterinary Medicine, our veterinary professionals strive to provide your pet with the very best of veterinary care. We believe that the best care for your pet should be provided by experienced, compassionate, and knowledgeable veterinary professionals. With two Maryland locations in both Baltimore and Pasadena, we are always ready to welcome your pet as a new patient! Give us a call today at 410-355-3131 or 410-793-7670! For more information, as well as updates on veterinary news and topics, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn!