If you’ve noticed changes in your cat’s behavior or body, you might be wondering, “How can I tell if my cat is pregnant?” Cats can go through subtle physical and behavioral changes during pregnancy, which can sometimes be hard to detect, especially early on. However, there are several signs and symptoms to look out for that can help you determine whether your cat is expecting kittens.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most common signs of pregnancy in cats, how to confirm the pregnancy, and what to do if your cat is indeed expecting.

Common Signs Your Cat May Be Pregnant

1. Change in Behavior

Pregnant cats, like pregnant animals of any species, can experience hormonal shifts that lead to changes in their behavior. Here are some common behavioral changes:

• Increased affection: Some pregnant cats become more affectionate than usual, seeking extra attention from their owners.
• Nesting behavior: As pregnancy progresses, cats will start searching for quiet, safe, and comfortable spots to give birth. You may see your cat exploring different corners of the house, scratching and rearranging bedding, or trying to hide in secluded areas.
• Less active: Some pregnant cats may become less energetic and more prone to lounging around. However, this can vary depending on the cat and how far along the pregnancy is.

2. Changes in Appetite

Changes in your cat’s eating habits are another early sign of pregnancy. Some pregnant cats experience:

• Increased appetite: As your cat’s body demands more energy to support the developing kittens, you may notice that her appetite increases. This may result in her wanting to eat more frequently or consuming larger amounts of food.
• Decreased appetite: Some cats may experience a temporary loss of appetite or become more picky about their food, especially in the early stages of pregnancy (around weeks 1–3). This can be caused by hormonal changes and is usually short-lived.

3. Weight Gain and Body Shape Changes

As the pregnancy progresses, your cat’s body will begin to change in noticeable ways. Some of the physical signs include:

• Increased body size: One of the most obvious signs of pregnancy in cats is weight gain. As the kittens grow, your cat’s belly will start to enlarge. Initially, the weight gain might not be obvious, but it will become more noticeable as she enters the later stages of pregnancy.
• Larger, firmer abdomen: The abdomen may feel slightly firmer as the kittens grow inside, though it can still be relatively soft in the early weeks.
• Noticeable roundness: Around week 4 or 5, you may notice your cat’s belly beginning to round out, especially if you gently palpate her stomach.

4. Change in Nipples (Nipples Becoming Enlarged and Pink)

One of the earliest and most reliable signs of pregnancy is a change in the appearance of your cat’s nipples. These changes occur as the body prepares for nursing.

• Pink and swollen nipples: Around 15 to 18 days into pregnancy, a pregnant cat's nipples will become enlarged and turn a darker pink or even reddish. This is often referred to as "pinking up."
• More prominent nipples: The nipples will also become more noticeable and raised as the pregnancy progresses. They may appear more pronounced or slightly enlarged compared to their usual state.

5. Morning Sickness (Less Common)

Some cats may experience mild nausea or “morning sickness” during pregnancy, particularly in the early stages.

• Reduced appetite: Some pregnant cats may eat less during the first few weeks of pregnancy due to nausea.
• Lethargy: Morning sickness can make your cat feel tired or sluggish. This could be accompanied by a general decrease in energy levels.

6. Behavioral Nesting or Seeking Solitude

As your cat gets closer to giving birth (especially around the 7th week of pregnancy), you may notice her seeking more isolated and quiet spots. This is often part of her instinct to prepare for labor.

• Seeking secluded spaces: Pregnant cats will often try to find a quiet, private spot to give birth, such as under furniture, inside closets, or even inside boxes.
• Nesting behavior: She may start gathering materials like towels, blankets, or even clothing to make a comfortable nest for herself.

7. Changes in the Cat’s Gait

In the later stages of pregnancy, you might notice that your cat’s walk appears different.

• Waddling: As the kittens grow and her belly becomes larger, some cats begin to waddle or walk more slowly.
• Stiff or clumsy movements: She may also exhibit more careful or stiff movements to avoid jarring the belly.

Confirming Pregnancy in Cats

If you suspect your cat might be pregnant, there are a few ways to confirm her pregnancy:

1. Visit the Veterinarian

The most accurate way to confirm whether your cat is pregnant is by visiting the vet. A professional can perform a few diagnostic tests:

• Ultrasound: Between weeks 2 and 3 of pregnancy, a veterinarian can perform an ultrasound to confirm the presence of kittens.
• Palpation: Your vet can gently palpate your cat’s abdomen around week 3 to feel the developing kittens.
• Blood tests: A blood test can detect the presence of pregnancy hormones, but this method is less commonly used for routine pregnancy diagnosis.

2. X-ray (For Later Stages)

Around week 6 of pregnancy, an X-ray can be used to confirm pregnancy and even count the number of kittens, as the skeletons of the kittens will be visible at this stage. However, X-rays are typically only done if there are concerns or to prepare for the birth.

3. Observe the Behavior

As mentioned earlier, observing your cat's behavior closely is one of the easiest ways to determine if she’s pregnant. Look for the physical and behavioral signs described above. If you're unsure, a vet’s visit will provide you with confirmation.

What to Do If Your Cat is Pregnant

If you confirm that your cat is pregnant, here are some things to consider:

1. Provide a Quiet and Comfortable Space

Prepare a quiet, comfortable space where your cat can give birth. This can be a cozy corner or a box lined with towels where she can feel safe and secure.

2. Monitor Her Health

Ensure your cat is getting the right nutrition. Pregnant cats need high-quality food with plenty of protein and nutrients to support the development of the kittens.

• Increase her food intake: Provide her with more food as her pregnancy progresses, as she will need more energy.
• Hydration is key: Make sure she always has access to fresh water.

3. Keep Her Indoors

It’s best to keep a pregnant cat indoors to protect her from potential dangers, such as fights with other animals or accidents.

4. Prepare for Labor

As her due date approaches, be ready for labor. Cats typically give birth around 63 to 65 days after conception, though this can vary slightly. Look out for signs like restlessness, panting, or nesting behavior that indicate she may be about to give birth.

Conclusion

Determining whether your cat is pregnant involves observing her physical changes, behaviors, and overall health. While the signs of pregnancy can sometimes be subtle, they generally become more obvious as time goes on. If you notice several of the signs mentioned, it’s likely that your cat is expecting kittens. For a definitive diagnosis, consider consulting your veterinarian.

Taking care of a pregnant cat involves providing her with the right nutrition, a safe environment, and monitoring her health closely. Preparing for the birth of kittens is an exciting but responsible task, so make sure you’re ready to provide the best care for your cat and her new babies.