When can you tell if a cat is pregnant? - briefly
A cat’s pregnancy can typically be confirmed by a veterinarian through palpation around 17-25 days after mating, while physical signs like weight gain and nipple changes become noticeable after 3-4 weeks.
When can you tell if a cat is pregnant? - in detail
Determining if a cat is pregnant involves observing physical and behavioral changes that typically become noticeable within a few weeks after conception. Around two to three weeks into pregnancy, a cat's nipples may become more prominent and pinkish, a phenomenon known as "pinking up." This is one of the earliest signs. By the third or fourth week, a veterinarian can often confirm pregnancy through palpation, feeling for small, firm masses in the abdomen that indicate the presence of developing embryos. However, this method requires expertise to avoid harming the fetuses.
Between four and five weeks, an ultrasound can be performed to detect the presence of kittens and confirm the pregnancy. This non-invasive procedure provides visual confirmation and can also estimate the number of fetuses. Around the same time, the cat may begin to show behavioral changes, such as increased affection, nesting behaviors, or changes in appetite.
By the sixth week, the cat's abdomen will visibly enlarge as the kittens grow. Weight gain becomes more apparent, and the cat may appear rounder. At this stage, a veterinarian can perform an X-ray to count the number of kittens and assess their skeletal development. However, X-rays are typically done closer to the end of the pregnancy to avoid unnecessary radiation exposure.
In the final weeks, the cat's mammary glands will enlarge further, and she may produce milk. She will also become more focused on preparing a nesting area for birth. By this stage, pregnancy is unmistakable. If you suspect your cat is pregnant, consulting a veterinarian is essential to ensure proper care and monitoring throughout the gestation period.