When do a cat's nipples turn red? - briefly
A cat's nipples may turn red during pregnancy or lactation due to increased blood flow and hormonal changes.
When do a cat's nipples turn red? - in detail
A cat’s nipples may turn red due to physiological changes, primarily related to pregnancy or lactation. During pregnancy, hormonal shifts cause increased blood flow to the mammary glands, which can result in the nipples becoming more prominent and reddened. This change typically occurs around the third week of gestation and becomes more noticeable as the pregnancy progresses. The redness is a natural response to the body preparing for milk production. Additionally, redness in a cat’s nipples can sometimes indicate irritation, infection, or trauma, such as from excessive grooming or environmental factors. In nursing cats, the nipples may remain red due to the constant stimulation from kittens feeding. If the redness is accompanied by swelling, discharge, or signs of discomfort, it could signal mastitis, a bacterial infection of the mammary glands, which requires veterinary attention. Observing the cat’s behavior and overall health is essential to determine the cause of the redness and ensure appropriate care.