can cats sense pregnancy

Cats cannot understand pregnancy as humans do, but they can often sense that something is different in their owner during pregnancy. This is mainly because cats have a highly sensitive sense of smell—about 14 times stronger than humans—and can detect subtle changes in body odor caused by hormonal shifts such as increases in estrogen, progesterone, and hCG. Cats may also notice changes in body temperature, behavior, and routine of their owner during pregnancy. Cats' reactions to sensing pregnancy vary widely; some may become more affectionate and clingy, others more aloof or territorial. They might also become more curious about the new baby-related items brought into the home or show signs of stress due to changes in the household routine. There is no definitive scientific proof that cats specifically "know" a person is pregnant, but anecdotal evidence and expert observations suggest they respond to the physiological and behavioral changes that come with pregnancy.