How does false pregnancy occur in cats? - briefly
False pregnancy in cats occurs when hormonal imbalances, particularly elevated progesterone levels, mimic the physiological changes of actual pregnancy, leading to symptoms like nesting behavior and milk production despite no conception.
How does false pregnancy occur in cats? - in detail
False pregnancy, also known as pseudopregnancy, occurs in cats due to hormonal imbalances following an estrus cycle that does not result in actual pregnancy. This phenomenon is relatively common in unspayed female cats and is triggered by the same hormonal changes that would occur during a genuine pregnancy. After ovulation, whether or not fertilization takes place, the corpus luteum forms on the ovaries and begins to produce progesterone, a hormone essential for maintaining pregnancy. If fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum typically regresses, and progesterone levels drop, leading to the end of the cycle. However, in cases of false pregnancy, the corpus luteum persists longer than usual, continuing to secrete progesterone. This prolonged elevation of progesterone mimics the hormonal state of pregnancy, causing the cat’s body to exhibit physical and behavioral changes similar to those of a pregnant cat. These changes may include mammary gland enlargement, milk production, nesting behavior, and even maternal instincts such as caring for inanimate objects as if they were kittens. Additionally, the pituitary gland may release prolactin, further reinforcing these symptoms. The exact cause of why some cats experience false pregnancy while others do not is not fully understood, but it is believed to be influenced by genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and the cat’s overall reproductive health. False pregnancy typically resolves on its own within a few weeks as hormone levels normalize, but in some cases, veterinary intervention may be necessary to manage symptoms or address complications such as mastitis. Spaying is the most effective way to prevent false pregnancy in cats, as it removes the hormonal fluctuations associated with the reproductive cycle.