A cat is likely pregnant if she shows a combination of signs such as a stopped heat cycle, increased appetite, pink swollen nipples ("pinking up"), vomiting around three weeks (similar to morning sickness), weight gain, swollen abdomen after about 4-5 weeks, longer sleep or behavioral changes like increased affection or nesting. These signs together, especially pink nipples and abdominal swelling, strongly indicate pregnancy. For a definitive confirmation, a vet can palpate the abdomen from about day 20 of gestation, perform ultrasound from around day 21, or take X-rays after day 40 to confirm pregnancy and estimate the number of kittens.
Key Signs of Pregnancy in Cats
- Heat cycle stops (no more yowling or rolling typical of heat)
- Increased appetite to about 1.5 times normal
- Pink, swollen nipples around 3 weeks ("pinking up")
- Vomiting (morning sickness) early in pregnancy
- Weight gain of 2 to 4 pounds
- Distended/swollen abdomen visible from ~4 to 5 weeks in
- Longer sleep, increased affection or nesting behavior
Veterinary Confirmation
- Palpation of belly at about day 20 post breeding
- Ultrasound from day 21 to detect kittens and heartbeats
- X-rays after day 40 to count kittens and estimate due date
Pregnancy typically lasts about 63 days. If pregnancy is suspected, consult a vet for confirmation and care advice. Avoid pressing on the belly as it can harm the cat or fetuses. This combination of physical signs and vet diagnostics will reliably tell if a cat is pregnant.
