Symptoms of Pregnant Cat

 

Unlike us, cat pregnancy cannot be detected via a blood or urine test. So instead, we have to learn to pick up on the symptoms of pregnant cats.  By the fourth week of the pregnancy your cat should have gained enough weight to make the pregnancy visible or to be a noticeable change in her abdomen size. This will also be around the time when the cat’s nipples will become enlarged and pink. This is also referred to as the cat “pinking up”.  Because the changes are so rapid, when you notice these symptoms of pregnant cats you can take your cat to see a vet who will be able to examine the abdomen and confirm the forthcoming arrival of kittens.

 

 

A cat pregnancy only lasts 2 months or around 60-70 days. All the symptoms pop up around 3 to 4 weeks into the pregnancy as this is already half way through. Do not attempt to feel for the kittens yourself as this can cause serious damage to the kittens or cause a miscarriage.  Take your cat into a vet to get a specialist to check for the babies. This can also be done by an ultrasound and around the 26^th day the fetus and the heartbeats can be recognized.

 

If you notice symptoms of pregnant cats in your little feline friend, you may be concerned about what the best treatment is for her during the pregnancy. Your vet may recommend kitten food because it contains larger amounts of calcium and protein. However, always consult your vet before changing your cat’s diet.  Do not be tempted to over feed your cat either, even though you expect she should be gaining weight she should still have a relaxed and balanced diet.  Overfeeding can result in complications in the pregnancy. If you are unsure about the right amounts, speak to your vet who will be happy to go over the recommendations with you that are beneficial for your cat. Your cat may go off food a little around the third week of the pregnancy. Other symptoms of pregnant cats include a loss of appetite and minor weight loss as cats can experience morning sickness much like we do.

 

Always take your cat regularly to the vet during her pregnancy; your vet will let you know when they need to see her again. Make sure you keep your cat indoors during the last two weeks of her pregnancy to ensure she has the kittens at home.

 

You will also need to come fully prepared for the arrival of those kittens, so talk to your vet about supplies and what you need to do when your cat starts labor. Make sure you have your vet’s telephone number handy as well. During the last week of the pregnancy, place a kittening box in a warm room separate from children and other pets. Encourage your cat to sleep in this box and provide all the essentials in this room such as water, food and litter box.