Introduction

Knowing whether your cat still has kittens inside is important for her health and the wellbeing of her unborn babies. You might be curious or concerned about her pregnancy progress and want to be prepared for the birth.

This guide will help you recognize the signs that your cat is still carrying kittens, understand the stages of feline pregnancy, and learn how to care for her during this critical time.

Understanding Cat Pregnancy Duration

Cat pregnancy, also called the gestation period, typically lasts about 63 to 67 days. However, this can vary slightly depending on the individual cat and breed.

Knowing the timeline helps you estimate if your cat is still pregnant or if she has already delivered her kittens. It also guides you on when to expect labor and delivery.

• The average gestation period is roughly nine weeks, which is important to track for monitoring your cat's progress.

• Early signs of pregnancy appear within the first two weeks, but kittens develop fully by the end of the term.

• Knowing the expected due date helps you prepare for the birth and recognize if labor is overdue.

• Variations in pregnancy length can occur, so observing your cat's behavior is essential alongside timing.

Understanding these basics sets the foundation for identifying if your cat still has kittens inside.

Physical Signs Your Cat Still Has Kittens

Physical changes in your cat’s body can indicate she is still pregnant. These signs become more noticeable as the pregnancy progresses.

Observing these changes helps you confirm that she is still carrying kittens and monitor her health closely.

• Enlarged and pinkish nipples, known as “pinking up,” usually appear around three weeks into pregnancy and indicate ongoing kitten development.

• A visibly swollen abdomen is a clear sign that kittens are growing inside, especially after the fourth week.

• Weight gain is common during pregnancy and suggests that the kittens are still developing.

• Decreased activity or nesting behavior can indicate your cat is preparing for delivery but still carrying kittens.

Watching for these physical signs can help you know if your cat is still pregnant and when to expect labor.

Behavioral Signs Indicating Pregnancy Status

Your cat’s behavior often changes during pregnancy, giving clues about whether she still has kittens inside. These signs can be subtle or obvious depending on the cat.

Understanding these behaviors helps you provide the right support and care during her pregnancy.

• Increased affection or seeking more attention can indicate hormonal changes linked to pregnancy.

• Nesting behavior, such as finding quiet, enclosed spaces, suggests she is preparing for birth but still pregnant.

• Reduced appetite or changes in eating habits may occur during early or late pregnancy stages.

• Restlessness or pacing can signal that labor is approaching but kittens are still inside.

Recognizing these behavioral signs helps you stay alert to your cat’s pregnancy progress and needs.

Veterinary Methods to Confirm If Kittens Are Inside

While physical and behavioral signs are helpful, veterinary exams provide the most accurate confirmation of pregnancy and kitten status.

Your vet can use several methods to check if your cat still has kittens inside and assess their health.

• Ultrasound scans can detect fetal heartbeats and movement as early as 2-3 weeks into pregnancy, confirming live kittens.

• X-rays taken after 42 days show kitten skeletons, helping determine the number of kittens and if they are still inside.

• Palpation by a skilled vet can feel the developing kittens around weeks 3-4 but requires experience to avoid harm.

• Blood tests measuring hormone levels can support pregnancy diagnosis but are less precise about kitten status.

Regular veterinary check-ups during pregnancy ensure your cat and her kittens remain healthy and safe.

When to Be Concerned About Retained Kittens

Sometimes, complications arise where kittens may be retained inside the mother after the expected delivery time. This is a serious concern requiring prompt attention.

Knowing the warning signs helps you act quickly to protect your cat’s health.

• Failure to deliver kittens within 24-48 hours after labor signs may indicate retained kittens needing veterinary care.

• Persistent abdominal pain, lethargy, or loss of appetite after expected delivery suggests complications.

• Discharge that is foul-smelling or abnormal can signal infection related to retained kittens.

• Visible distress, vocalizing, or excessive panting during labor may mean the cat is struggling to deliver.

If you notice these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately to prevent serious health risks.

How to Care for a Pregnant Cat Still Carrying Kittens

Proper care during pregnancy supports your cat’s health and the development of her kittens. Knowing how to care for her while she still carries kittens is essential.

Providing a safe, comfortable environment and good nutrition helps ensure a smooth pregnancy and delivery.

• Offer a balanced diet formulated for pregnant or nursing cats to meet increased nutritional needs.

• Provide a quiet, warm nesting area where your cat feels safe and can prepare for birth.

• Limit stressful situations and avoid handling her abdomen to prevent injury to kittens.

• Schedule regular veterinary visits to monitor pregnancy progress and address any concerns early.

With attentive care, your cat can have a healthy pregnancy and deliver strong, healthy kittens.

Conclusion

Knowing how to tell if your cat still has kittens inside helps you support her throughout pregnancy and prepare for delivery. Observing physical and behavioral signs alongside veterinary checks gives the clearest picture.

By understanding the pregnancy timeline, recognizing warning signs, and providing proper care, you can help ensure a safe and healthy experience for your cat and her kittens.

FAQs

How long does a cat pregnancy usually last?

Cat pregnancy typically lasts between 63 and 67 days, or about nine weeks. This timeframe helps you estimate when kittens will be born.

What are early signs that a cat is still pregnant?

Early signs include pinking up of nipples, mild weight gain, and changes in appetite or behavior, usually noticeable within the first few weeks.

Can I feel the kittens inside my cat?

Experienced veterinarians can sometimes feel kittens by gently palpating the abdomen around weeks 3 to 4, but it’s not recommended for owners to try this.

When should I take my pregnant cat to the vet?

Schedule a vet visit as soon as pregnancy is suspected and follow up regularly to monitor health and detect any complications early.

What should I do if my cat is overdue and hasn’t delivered?

If your cat is more than a few days past her due date or shows signs of distress, contact your veterinarian immediately for evaluation and care.