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Is my cat pregnant? She's eating more, lazy, big belly, and shedding.

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My cat has been eating more and has become lazier these past few weeks. Shes an outdoor cat and disappears for hours in the morning. Shes a lot more affectionate. She seems bigger around her stomach area too. I could feel her hardened nipples when I touched her. Is she pregnant? Another question: When I stroke her, bundles of fur come off- shes not a long haired cat. Is this normal since it has been getting hotter nowadays? When i brush her a lot of fur comes off.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 29th, 2018

Hello. It does sound like your cat is pregnant. Female cats often seem to become more affectionate & content when they are pregnant. The hair loss may be related to normal shedding, but often in pregnancy, some hair loss will occur. I would switch her food from a maintenance or adult cat food to a kitten food. Feed her the kitten food for the rest of her pregnancy & while she nurses the kittens. Once the kittens start to wean onto solid food ( at about 3-4 weeks of age ) you can slowly transition her back to her regular adult cat food. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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    Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 9th, 2017

    I cannot tell you if she is pregnant for sure, but it sure sounds like she is. in order to be sure the only way to know is to have an ultrasound done at the vets, otherwise it's just basically waiting and see if she gives birth to kittens in the weeks to come.

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