What happens when a cat is pregnant?

After becoming pregnant, a cat shows a series of physical and behavioral changes: increased appetite, weight gain, darkened nipples, and swollen mammary glands. As the fetuses grow, the belly swells, and uterine pressure on the bladder can cause frequent urination.

One to two days before delivery, the cat may eat less, become anxious, nest, have a lower temperature, and more vulvar discharge. Once pregnancy is confirmed, give the cat a quiet, clean environment with enough nutrition, avoid hard exercise and stress, and watch closely near the due date; see a vet if anything is abnormal.