Have you noticed that your female cat is putting on weight? Do you suspect that she may be pregnant? Our vets in Lafayette have provided some additional signs that may indicate cat pregnancy. Keep reading to find out what to watch for and what steps you can take.
Isn't My Cat Too Young to Be Pregnant?
If you have a female cat that hasn't been spayed and manages to escape your home, it's likely that she may become pregnant.
Female cats typically experience their first heat cycle between 4-7 months of age, which means they're physically mature and can have their first litter of kittens. An unspayed female cat can go into heat every 3 weeks until she becomes pregnant or is spayed.
If your female cat is not spayed, she may have up to 4 litters of kittens per year, each containing 4-12 kittens. It's important to note that if your unspayed cat has been outside, there is a high likelihood that she may be pregnant. Therefore, seeking veterinary care is crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of both the mother and her potential kittens.
Is My Cat Pregnant?
Here are some signs of pregnancy in cats that you can keep an eye out for. It's important to note that your cat may not exhibit all of these signs, as it depends on how far along the pregnancy is.
- Becoming more affectionate
- Notable weight gain
- Pink, swollen nipples
- Distended abdomen
- Increased appetite
- Hiding more often
- May sleep more than usual
If your cat is showing the symptoms mentioned above, it's advisable to take them to the vet for a thorough examination. This will help to confirm pregnancy or identify any underlying health issues that may be causing the symptoms.
How Does My Vet Diagnose If My Cat is Pregnant?
Veterinarians can perform various tests to confirm if your cat is pregnant and expecting a litter.
- Your vet is likely to do is to palpate your cat's abdomen. This means that the vet will gently feel your cat's belly to determine whether they can detect the presence of fetuses. If your cat is more than 17 days pregnant, your vet may be able to confirm pregnancy in this manner.
- Your vet may recommend an ultrasound test to look for fetuses if your vet suspects that your cat is 14 days pregnant or more.
- If your vet suspects your cat has been pregnant for more than 42 days, they might suggest an X-ray. Digital X-rays or radiographs are safe and can aid in determining the due date and the number of kittens.
How Do I Take Care of My Pregnant Cat?
After confirming your cat's pregnancy, your veterinarian will provide you with individualized recommendations for caring for your pregnant cat. To ensure a healthy and safe pregnancy and delivery, it is generally recommended to follow these guidelines:
- Do not squeeze or press on her belly.
- Your cat may eat as much as 25% more than normal while pregnant and nursing, so provide plenty of high-quality food.
- Clean her litter box once or twice daily.
- Ensure that her litter box is easy to access as her tummy continues to expand and drop.
- Ensure that your cat has a cozy, clean area that she can use to give birth and care for her kittens. This spot should be warm and quiet in your home, well away from kids, other human traffic, and other pets.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.