When is a cat's pregnancy visible? - briefly
A cat's pregnancy typically becomes visible around the third or fourth week, when her abdomen starts to noticeably enlarge and her nipples become more prominent.
When is a cat's pregnancy visible? - in detail
A cat's pregnancy typically becomes visible around the third week, but more noticeable physical changes start to appear by the fourth or fifth week. In the early stages, signs of pregnancy are subtle and may include behavioral changes such as increased affection, reduced activity, or slight changes in appetite. By the third week, a veterinarian can often confirm pregnancy through palpation, as the developing embryos become detectable. Around the fourth week, the cat's nipples may become more prominent and pinkish, a phenomenon known as "pinking up." By the fifth week, weight gain becomes more apparent, and the abdomen begins to enlarge as the fetuses grow. By the sixth week, the pregnancy is usually quite visible, with a rounded belly and noticeable changes in the cat's overall body shape. Ultrasound or X-ray imaging can be used after the sixth week to confirm the number of kittens and monitor their development. As the pregnancy progresses into the final weeks, the cat's abdomen becomes significantly larger, and she may exhibit nesting behaviors in preparation for birth. It's important to provide proper care and nutrition during this period to ensure the health of both the mother and her kittens.