Why does a pregnant cat scratch? - briefly
A pregnant cat may exhibit increased scratching behavior due to hormonal changes and discomfort from her growing belly. This is a natural response as she prepares for motherhood by marking her territory and creating comfortable nesting areas.
Why does a pregnant cat scratch? - in detail
A pregnant cat may exhibit increased scratching behavior due to several reasons, each of which can be attributed to physiological and hormonal changes that occur during gestation.
Firstly, the elevated levels of progesterone and other pregnancy-related hormones can cause itching sensations in the cat's skin. This hormonal imbalance can lead to dryness and irritation, prompting the cat to scratch more frequently as a means of alleviating discomfort.
Secondly, the growth of the fetuses places pressure on various organs within the cat's abdomen, including the bladder. This increased pressure can result in more frequent urination, which may cause irritation and itching around the genital area. Consequently, the cat may scratch more intensely to relieve these sensations.
Thirdly, the development of the mammary glands during pregnancy can also contribute to increased scratching behavior. As the glands enlarge in preparation for lactation, they may become tender and itchy, leading the cat to scratch at her chest area more often.
Lastly, the natural instinct of a pregnant cat to prepare a nest for her kittens can also be a factor in increased scratching behavior. Cats will often dig or scratch at soft surfaces like blankets, pillows, or even their owners to create a comfortable and secure environment for giving birth. This behavior is driven by maternal instincts rather than physical discomfort.
In summary, the increased scratching behavior observed in pregnant cats can be attributed to hormonal changes causing skin irritation, pressure on internal organs leading to genital itching, tenderness of the mammary glands, and the instinctual need to prepare a nest for their kittens. It is important for owners to provide comfortable environments and regular grooming sessions to help manage these behaviors and ensure the well-being of both the mother cat and her unborn kittens.