Cat pregnancy is a box of surprises for first-time pet parents. The signs sometimes go unnoticed - especially in the first few weeks. So if you have a spayed cat who hasn't been neutered yet and has a habit of wandering around the neighborhood, it's important to pay attention. A common question at these times is whether there is any kind of pregnancy test for cats,price, how it works and if the result is reliable. To clear these doubts, we have gathered some important information on how to know if the cat is pregnant and the care that this condition demands. Continue reading!

Is there a pregnancy test for cats, how does it work?

It even exists, and it is usually quite useful, both to diagnose cat pregnancy early and to identify cases of psychological pregnancy. However, these kits do not replace a consultation with a professional to be sure that the cat is pregnant and to have all the necessary guidance, such as gestation time, number of kittens and monitoring the growth of the kittens.fetuses.

But how is it done? The pregnancy test for cats works as follows: to be positive, it collects a small sample of serum or blood plasma from the cat, which must contain the hormone relaxin, typical of cat pregnancy. That is, the methodology is different from humans, since the type of hormone released by pregnant women in the urine is HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin), and not the HCG.This means that the human test doesn't work in cats, so there's no point in even trying to use it.

This type of test can be used from the 20th day of your cat's pregnancy. Even if the result is positive, be sure to consult a veterinarian! He will be able to confirm the pregnancy with a cat ultrasound examination, which can be done from 15 days of pregnancy. Oh, and remember: there is no home pregnancy test for cats!

How to tell if the cat is pregnant?

There are some specific symptoms that start to appear as a cat's pregnancy progresses, but which require a very close look on the part of the guardian. To begin with, it is possible that the pregnant cat's breasts will become larger and pink, and a thin coat will grow around the nipples. After four weeks, it is also common for the abdomen to start swelling and for the pregnant cat to gain weight: first it increasesin the area behind the ribs and then throughout the rest of the body.

As for the cat's behavior, the female becomes more needy and has the need to stay close to the guardian for longer. In addition, if she lives with other animals, she can adopt a risky behavior, as it is part of the protective instinct with the kittens.

Important care for pregnant cats

Knowing the main care for the pregnant cat makes all the difference for the pregnancy to happen in the best possible way. In this sense, here are some tips:

1) Provide a balanced and nutritious diet for your pregnant cat. During pregnancy, it's common for your kitten's appetite to increase, so it's good to make sure she's getting all the nutrients she needs in her diet. In some cases, cat vitamins may be necessary.

2) Medical follow-up is essential. If you don't know how long a cat's pregnancy lasts, the answer is between 63 and 67 days. Throughout this period, it is important that a veterinarian closely monitor the feline to avoid complications and other problems in pregnancy.

3) Keep the kitten as comfortable as possible during this time. She should have everything she needs: a cozy corner and lots of love, affection and attention. As already mentioned, the pregnant cat can be more needy and it is good that she feels loved and happy in her home.