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My stray cat's belly is big. Is she pregnant or does she have a tumor?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed

Not sure if my cat is pregnant or maybe has some sort of tumor? She is a stray cat that I take care of, she's very loving but has been very big for a while now..

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4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on June 15th, 2017

"Mama" is a very pretty girl! :) I agree that her abdomen definitely looks enlarged. It's possible that she could be pregnant, but the enlarged belly could also be caused by something else such as an abdominal tumor, heart or liver disease, or FIP (feline infectious peritonitis). Cats are only pregnant for 64 days on average, so if her belly has been swollen like this for more than a few weeks or so, I would be very concerned that something else is wrong. The best way to find out would be to take her to the vet for an exam - he/she can palpate her abdomen and may also recommend x-rays or ultrasound to help determine for sure what's going on.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 10th, 2018

    There are many possible reasons for swelling and abdominal enlargement - pregnancy, liver diseases, FIP, obesity and tumours are definitely a concern. I recommend a full check up as soon as possi ble in order to determine the underlying cause and the most appropriate treatment.

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    Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 10th, 2019

    I agree that all those are potentially the cause of her abdomen looking the way it does. The best and most accurate way to know if to have Delphi examined by the veterinarian. An abdominal palpation and fecal testing will help to look at causes. While you are there, discuss having her spayed. Spaying females has many potential health benefits and will help to control the huge problem of pet over population. If cost is a concern, ask your local humane society about low cost spay programs. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.

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    Answered By Mara Howard, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 3rd, 2017

    If her belly is looking more enlarged than normal, it may be secondary to weight gain but there also may be something else going on. It is possible if she is outside that she may be pregnant, or th re could be a fluid accumulation in her abdomen that is making it look larger. I would recommend she be seen by her regular veterinarian to determine the underlying cause for her abdominal growth, and if a medical issue any treatment that may be necessary. Good luck!

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