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Why does my cat still look pregnant after giving birth to kittens?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

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

My cat gave birth two six kittens (two did not make it) Sunday afternoon, she still looks pregnant; she acts normal but it looks like she didn't "clean" herself after the last kitten that came out. Why does she still look pregnant?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on May 15th, 2019

This is normal and no cause for concern. Ideally, she should be physically examined by your veterinarian to confirm no kittens remain to be delivered. It may take some time for Kitty to lose the pregnancy weight or for swelling associated with the pregnancy to resolve.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Rosemary Barber, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 27th, 2017

    Hi! Sorry to hear about the stillbirths! This is a little odd! I wonder if she still has fluid in her uterus, or whether her body has just not resumed the original shape, because she wasn't able to nurse babies. I'm glad that she is acting fine otherwise though, that is the most important thing. If there were retained placentas, or still babies inside, I imagine that she would be very sick right now! So, you could always have her checked by your vet to be on the safe side, but I think as long as she is eating/drinking, and acting normally, I wouldn't be too worried. Best of luck with Bear!

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    Answered By Dr. Andrea

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 18th, 2018

    Most likely this is normal. It takes time for everything to shrink back down. Even some discharge now is normal. Her belly will remain a bit bigger, probably forever, and she might keep some nipple enlargement. If she is straining, passing a lot of blood, not eating or not taking care of the babies, then do go to ER.

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