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My cat looks pregnant but has diarrhea. Is she sick or pregnant?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 9 lbs

Shadow has been showing signs of being pregnant: protruding sides, back is swayed some, and large appetite. Her nipples, although bigger than other kitties don't seem to be as big as they should be compared with her swollen middle. That's my one concern. The other is, she has diarrhea a lot, and I think it's making her sore. I was just wondering if the cause of her apparent "pregnancy symptoms" might actually be an illness? (Like worm belly?) Or can this be normal in a pregnancy? Thank you!

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3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 10th, 2018

It certainly is possible that Shadow is pregnant even if her nipples don't appear large. Intestinal parasites can cause bloating, severe diarrhea could cause abdominal distention, or she could have an accumulation of fluid in her belly. I would recommend taking her to a veterinarian - they can check for pregnancy and also check for intestinal parasites and treat the diarrhea. While occasional soft stool is possible during pregnancy I wouldn't expect frequent diarrhea to the point that it causes discomfort.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

    Veterinary Technician

    Published on August 3rd, 2018

    If Sweet is not spayed and has been outdoors, it is very possible she may be pregnant, as summertime is kitten season and the season when most cats go into ovulation. However, vomiting and diarrhea are not usually symptoms of pregnancy in cats, and if her stomach feels hard, or firm there is a possibility that something else underlying such as illness, infection, parasites, GI obstruction, etc is causing her symptoms as well It would be best to bring her to a vet for a full exam to check for pregnancy and rule out any more serious GI issues causing her problems.

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    Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 28th, 2019

    Poor Max! The vomiting could be due to many conditions including eating something she shouldn't have, bacterial over growth, parasites (worms and giardia) or even something more severe like organ dysfunction or intestinal blockage. Vomiting is not a sign of pregnancy. I recommend to have Max examined by the veterinarian if the vomiting has continued beyond 48 hours. Try to remember to take in a stool sample. The doctor will check her for parasites and bacterial over growth. Other diagnostics may be recommended as well. Many times a bland diet can help and then a slow, gradual introduction to the normal food can be done. A bland diet can consist of 25% boiled white meat chicken and 75% boiled white rice. This should all be plain. I hope Max starts feeling better quickly! Please feel free to post any additional questions!

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