There is nothing better than a soft and fuzzy kitten! But before new tiny fuzzballs come into your life there area few things to keep an eye out for in your expecting mama cat.
If you’re unsure on how to tell if your cat is pregnant, read this list and see if she is exhibiting any of the signs of a pregnancy.
1. Physical Changes
If you suspect your cat is pregnant, it’s important to pay attention to any physical changes you may find.
The first thing you’ll probably notice are her nipples. Cats’ nipples become red and engorged when they become pregnant. This is called “pinking.” This usually occurs two or so weeks after she gets impregnated.
The other big change will be her belly. If you notice her belly getting larger or swelling, that’s usually a sign she might be having babies soon. Cats will also gain a few pounds throughout their pregnancy as they start eating more for all the kittens.
2. Personality Changes
Pregnant kitties may start exhibiting a few behavior changes too.
Expecting mamas (or “queens”) may become more cuddly and maternal as their pregnancy extends. If your cat starts asking for more cuddles or pets, that may be a sign that she’s soon to have kittens.
Like any soon-to-be mother, queens may start sleeping more throughout the day. Lethargy is perfectly normal and if you notice this, just let her sleep.
Queens will also start nesting as they get closer to their delivery date. We’ll cover that later.
3. Increased Interest in Food
Cats will start eating more if they become pregnant. Because they’re eating for more than just one now, they’ll start demanding more food. Oblige them since their energy levels will be changing and they’ll need the added calories to keep up with all of the kittens.
It may be a good idea to check with your vet to make sure she doesn’t have worms or is suffering from another illness. This will help you keep new babies healthy as well. If you notice her eating more but not really gaining any sort of weight that might be a sign that there’s something else at work than just normal pregnancy symptoms.
4. Nesting
Nesting is a major symptom of pregnancy.
Queens will start searching out safe spaces for their future delivery. If you notice your cat looking in hidden corners of your home, accommodate her. Provide boxes, blankets or scrap fabrics that she can use to keep herself and her babies warm and sequestered.
Nesting usually starts two to three weeks before delivery. Keep an eye out for this and brace for new babies entering both your life and your cat’s.
5. How to Tell if Your Cat is Pregnant: Ultrasounds
The easiest and most conclusive way to determine your cat is pregnant is to take her to the vet and get an ultrasound done.
Ultrasounds will show how many kittens your cat will be having and will alert your vet to any dangerous health issues they may have that could lead to a difficult delivery for your cat.
If you think your cat is pregnant you’ll be able to tell within a couple weeks of her getting impregnated thanks to ultrasound technology!
Give Your Cat and Kittens Their Best Life
If you are unsure on how to tell if your cat is pregnant, reach out to your vet. They’ll be able to run a few tests and do an ultrasound if they think kittens are in your future.
And remember, once your cat delivers, it’s always a good idea to discuss with your vet about spaying your pet.