How Do Vets Diagnose Cat Pregnancy? Key Methods Explained

Learn how vets check for cat pregnancy using palpation, ultrasound, and more.

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Vets check if a cat is pregnant by performing a few key steps. They palpate the cat’s abdomen to feel for developing kittens. Ultrasound can confirm pregnancy and detect fetal heartbeats. Blood tests can also measure hormonal changes specific to pregnancy. For precise determination, vets might use X-rays after 45 days of gestation to visualize the kittens' skeletons.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What signs indicate a cat may be pregnant? Common signs of a pregnant cat include increased appetite, behavioral changes, and abdominal swelling.
  2. How soon can a vet confirm a cat's pregnancy? A vet can typically confirm a cat's pregnancy through abdominal palpation as early as 3 weeks post-mating.
  3. Are there any risks involved during a cat's pregnancy? Yes, risks can include pregnancy complications like infections and difficulties in labor, so regular vet check-ups are essential.