If you have a female cat and suspect she might be pregnant, it can be an exciting yet overwhelming time. Female cats go into heat every few weeks between spring and fall, making feline pregnancy quite common. But how can you tell if your cat is truly pregnant? One indicator lies in the changes to her nipples. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between pregnant cat nipples and normal cat nipples to help you better understand your feline friend’s situation.
All About Cat Nipples
Most cats have either six or eight nipples, arranged in pairs along their bellies. While some cats may have more or less, this pattern allows a litter of kittens to nurse simultaneously. When not pregnant, a female cat’s nipples are small and often hidden by fur. They resemble tiny pimples, surrounded by a ring of hairless skin. The color of the nipples usually matches the cat’s skin tone.
Do male cats have nipples? Absolutely! Just like male humans, male cats also have nipples. However, in male cats, these nipples and mammary systems remain small and inactive throughout their lives.
Nipple Changes in Pregnancy
One of the most obvious signs of early pregnancy in cats is changes to their nipples. Around 15 to 18 days after conception, the nipples become larger and turn reddish. This phenomenon, often referred to as “pinking up,” is a distinct change. The nipples may even double or triple in size during this time.
The enlargement of the nipples is accompanied by the development of a hairless skin ring around each nipple, making them more visible. This is a sign that the mammary system is preparing for lactation and nursing. In the later stages of pregnancy, around day 60 to 65, the nipples become even more prominent and surrounded by hairless skin. Clear or milky discharge may also leak from the nipples, especially if they are touched, as hormones stimulate milk production.
After giving birth, the mother cat will nurse her kittens, and the mammary glands will continue to produce milk. The enlarged and darker-colored nipples remain until the kittens are fully weaned.
Other Signs of Cat Pregnancy
The feline gestation period lasts approximately 63 to 67 days, and there are several signs that can indicate early pregnancy before the litter arrives. Consider the following signs to help determine if your cat is pregnant:
Vomiting
Similar to humans experiencing morning sickness, cats can also vomit as an early sign of pregnancy. However, vomiting should be infrequent and intermittent. If your cat vomits frequently or appears unwell, it’s best to seek advice from a veterinarian.
Weight Gain
As your cat’s pregnancy progresses, you may notice abdominal swelling. Depending on the number of kittens, pregnant cats typically gain around 2 to 4 pounds during gestation. Be cautious not to touch your cat’s abdomen or lift her with a hand under her tummy, as this could cause discomfort or complications.
Appetite
Many pregnant cats have a significantly increased appetite as the growing kittens demand more energy. This change is a natural response triggered by the cat’s changing body.
Behavior Changes
Pregnancy can cause noticeable changes in your cat’s behavior and personality. She may become more affectionate, purr more frequently, or exhibit aggression due to feeling defensive about her unborn kittens. Additionally, nesting behavior may become apparent in the last two weeks of pregnancy, as the cat seeks out suitable locations for birthing and prepares nests with soft blankets or towels.
What Should I Do If I Think My Cat Is Pregnant?
If the signs mentioned resonate with your cat’s behavior, it’s possible she is pregnant. To confirm the pregnancy and potentially estimate the number of kittens, schedule an ultrasound at your local veterinary clinic. This will provide a clear answer and help you plan for routine care, such as vaccinations, worm and flea treatments, to ensure the health and well-being of both the mother cat and her kittens.
Other Causes of Nipple Changes
Nipple changes don’t exclusively indicate pregnancy. Swollen pink nipples can be a sign that your cat is in heat and receptive to mating, rather than being pregnant. Additionally, certain medical conditions can cause nipple-related symptoms.
Mastitis, for instance, is an inflammation of the mammary gland usually caused by a bacterial infection. It is commonly observed in nursing queens when kittens bite or knead the nipples, leading to tiny wounds that allow bacteria to enter. Symptoms of mastitis include kittens not thriving, fever and lethargy in the mother cat, red and swollen mammary glands, and discolored or cloudy milk. Mastitis can be treated with antibiotics and painkillers, but it’s crucial to seek immediate veterinary advice as the kittens may require assistance with feeding, and the mother cat’s health could deteriorate if left untreated.
Mammary cancer can also cause swelling and nipple changes. Look out for firm lumps around or below the nipple, depression, loss of appetite, discharge, or a foul smell around the mammary glands. A biopsy is usually necessary to diagnose mammary cancer in cats, with treatment options including surgery or chemotherapy.
Preventing Pregnancy in Cats
While kittens are undeniably adorable, they also come with significant responsibilities and costs. Female cats can reach sexual maturity as early as four months old and have multiple litters in a year. Spaying, a routine surgical procedure offered by veterinarians, provides numerous benefits. It eliminates the frequent heat cycle, associated behavioral changes, and contributes to reducing cat overpopulation. Spaying can also lower the risk of diseases like mammary cancer. To prevent unwanted pregnancies, consult your veterinarian about spaying your cat.
Final Thoughts
Cats have multiple pairs of nipples, which are typically small, pale, and covered in fur. However, during pregnancy, these nipples undergo noticeable changes, becoming larger, darker, and surrounded by hairless skin. Other signs of pregnancy include weight gain, behavioral changes, nesting behavior, vomiting, and increased appetite.
Keep in mind that changes in nipples can also occur during a cat’s heat cycle or be indicators of medical conditions such as mastitis or mammary cancer. Seeking veterinary advice is essential to confirm pregnancy and rule out other health concerns.
So, if you suspect your cat may be pregnant, monitor her behavior closely and consult a veterinarian for confirmation and guidance on proper care.