You can tell if a cat is pregnant by looking for several physical and behavioral signs that typically appear a few weeks after mating: Physical Signs:
- Swollen, pink nipples ("pinking up") appear around 3 weeks into pregnancy as the nipples enlarge and change color
- Noticeable weight gain usually occurs over the course of pregnancy, with a cat gaining about 2 to 4 pounds total
- Enlarged, distended abdomen becomes visible around 4 to 5 weeks into pregnancy as the kittens grow
- Vomiting or morning sickness may happen early in pregnancy due to hormonal changes
- Cessation of heat cycles is often the first sign; a pregnant cat will stop going into heat
- Near the end of pregnancy, you might notice red discharge on the vulva and increased licking of that area as labor approaches
Behavioral Signs:
- Increased appetite after initial possible decrease, as the cat needs more nutrition for her kittens
- More affectionate or sometimes reclusive behavior due to hormonal changes
- Sleeping more and resting more often especially in later stages
- Nesting behavior begins around the seventh week, where the cat seeks out quiet, safe places to give birth
- Restlessness and vocalization may occur shortly before labor
If you suspect your cat is pregnant, the best way to confirm is to take her to a veterinarian. The vet can perform a physical tummy check, and if needed, an ultrasound or X-ray to confirm pregnancy and estimate the number of kittens
. In summary, look for pink swollen nipples, weight gain, a growing belly, changes in appetite and behavior, and nesting as key indicators that your cat is pregnant. For a definitive diagnosis, consult your vet.
