You can tell if your cat is pregnant by observing several physical and behavioral signs, especially after a few weeks into the pregnancy:
- Swollen, pink nipples ("pinking up") usually appear around 3 weeks into pregnancy as her body prepares for nursing
- Weight gain becomes noticeable within a few weeks, with most pregnant cats gaining about 2 to 4 pounds overall
- Enlarged abdomen typically becomes visible around 4 to 5 weeks as the kittens grow inside
- Changes in appetite : early pregnancy may cause decreased appetite or vomiting (similar to morning sickness), followed by increased appetite later on
- Behavioral changes such as increased affection, more sleeping, or nesting behavior (seeking quiet, safe places) usually start in the later stages of pregnancy
- Cessation of heat cycles : if your cat usually goes into heat regularly and suddenly stops, pregnancy is likely
For a definitive diagnosis, a veterinarian can:
- Gently palpate your cat’s abdomen after about 17 days to feel for fetuses
- Perform an ultrasound from around 14 days onward to detect fetuses and heartbeats after 21 days
- Take X-rays after about 42 days to see the developing kittens’ skeletons
If you suspect your cat is pregnant, it’s best to have her checked by a vet to confirm and to discuss proper care during pregnancy
. In summary, look for pink nipples, weight gain, a growing belly, appetite and behavior changes, and absence of heat cycles as key signs your cat may be pregnant, and confirm with a vet for certainty.
