Pregnant Cat Rolling on Back? Don't Freak Out Just Yet…

Step right up, folks, and gather 'round.

We've got ourselves a problem. 😕

A real puzzler, really.

We're talkin' all sorts of unexpected behavior from our fluffy feline friends.

But fear not, for today I've got the guide you've been waitin' for.

The long-awaited answer to the burning question:

Why is that pregnant cat rollin' on her back?

Ready?

Let's roll!

Understanding Your Pregnant Cat's Behavior

Rolling behavior in pregnant cats

Pregnant cats have some interesting habits, like rolling on their back.

This helps relieve the pressure on their abdomen and makes them more comfortable.

It's also their way of seeking attention from you because they deserve all the love and care.

Rubbing the belly isn't always appreciated

Not all pregnant cats enjoy having their bellies rubbed.

Some may feel uncomfortable or defensive when you touch their bellies.

So, be careful and respect their boundaries.

If your cat warns you or tries to bite, it's nothing personal. She's just letting you know what she's comfortable with.

Rollin' for communication and protection

Rolling behavior is not only about comfort or attention-seeking, but it also serves as a form of communication for pregnant cats.

When they roll, they release their scent, marking their territory and saying, "This is mine!" Interestingly, it also helps protect their digestive system by creating a barrier of bacteria from their fur.

See how pregnant cats have unique behaviors during pregnancy?

But did you know that rolling is just one of the many interesting behaviors pregnant cats exhibit?

Let me dive deeper and explore some of the other fascinating actions they engage in during this special time...

Common Behaviors of Pregnant Cats

Pregnant cats have some common behaviors you might notice.

Let's break them down for you:

1. Nesting behaviors: Pregnant cats start rearranging blankets and looking for a quiet place to give birth. They're getting ready for their kittens.
2. Rolling: Sometimes cats roll around because they're playful, itchy, or need to stretch. It's a way for them to communicate, often with purring, head rubbing, and meowing.
3. Territorial marking: Female cats roll around when they're in heat or after mating because of hormones. Rubbing and scratching helps them mark their territory.
4. Increased maternal behavior: When pregnant, cats become more motherly. They might sleep on their backs and make more noise to connect with their unborn babies.
5. Increased daytime sleep: Pregnant cats take longer naps during the day. This is normal and helps them save energy for when they're active at night.

So now you know the common behaviors of pregnant cats.

Understanding these can help you take care of your furry friend during this special time.

But did you know that pregnant cats can also experience mood swings and unexpected changes in behavior?

Let me explain further.

Behavioral and Hormonal Changes Throughout Pregnancy

During pregnancy, cats go through a bunch of changes.

It's kind of like going through cat menopause, just like you humans.

Here are some cool things that pregnant cats go through:

1. Morning sickness: Like pregnant humans, some cats get morning sickness. They might barf or not want to eat.
2. Cravings: Pregnant cats may start having weird cravings for certain foods. Don't be shocked if your cat suddenly wants pickles or ice cream!
3. Behavioral changes: As the due date gets closer, pregnant cats might wander around looking for a cozy spot to have their babies. Keep an eye out for your cat trying to make herself comfy in unexpected places.
4. Distinct walking style: Cats in heat walk with their butts up and tails to the side. It's how they show they can have kittens. Pregnant cats might do this too.
5. Increased appetite or loss of interest in food: Some pregnant cats will want to eat everything, while others won't care about food at all. Pay attention to your cat's eating habits and talk to your vet if you're worried.

These changes are all part of the amazing journey of cat pregnancy. 😺

And if you're wondering why your pregnant cat is exhibiting aggressive behavior, I invite you to learn more in my blog post on Why Is My Pregnant Cat So Mean and Aggressive.

There, you'll discover insights and tips to better understand your furry friend's behavior during this miraculous journey.

Signs of Pregnancy in Cats

Here's what to watch for if you think your cat might be pregnant:

1. Watch for her little cat nips getting darker and bigger.
2. If her tummy starts looking rounder, she could be preggers.
3. As time goes on, you might see her belly getting swelled up.
4. Pregnant cats tend to get more lovey-dovey with humans and other animals.
5. Around day 35, her nipples might start looking bigger and leaking milky stuff.
6. Some cats chow down more during pregnancy, while others lose interest in food.
7. The best thing to do is book a vet appointment so they can confirm if she's really pregnant using an ultrasound.

If you notice any of these signs, don't mess around - take your furry friend to the vet pronto for the right care and advice.

But what if your cat's behavior seems a little out of the ordinary? That's when I recommend checking out my article on the intriguing topic of Cat Hump Dog.

It dives into the fascinating reasons why a cat may exhibit such behaviors.

Trust me, you won't want to miss this eye-opening read.

Feed your curiosity and discover the why behind your feline friend's actions.

Physical Transformations and Visual Indications of Pregnancy in Cats

At around day 35 of a cat's pregnancy, you'll notice her nipples getting larger and darker. They may even release a bit of milky fluid.

Keep in mind that cats are pregnant for about 65-69 days, during which they go through some noticeable physical changes.

Specifically, their tummy becomes distended, measuring slightly past the halfway mark from neck to tail when viewed from above.

Also, when you look at the cat from the side, you'll see a swaybacked posture with a round and bulging tummy. These signs indicate the development of precious little kittens inside her.

Caring for a Pregnant Cat

Taking care of a pregnant cat requires special attention and care.

Here's what you need to do:

1. Make sure you provide a quiet and calm environment for the pregnant cat so she doesn't get stressed out by loud noises or sudden movements.
2. Be proactive and prepare for pregnancy and birth by getting your cat spayed to prevent any unwanted pregnancies.
3. Keep in mind that pregnant cats may start nesting, so make sure they have a cozy and comfortable spot to rest.
4. Once the 6th week of pregnancy comes around, it's crucial to keep the pregnant cat indoors to ensure her safety.
5. If you're helping with the birth process, be careful when touching the pregnant cat's belly, especially if she's snoozing.
6. To make things easier for the cat during labor, set up a quiet and dimly lit birthing box where she can give birth. Let her choose the spot herself.
7. While it's best not to interfere too much, there might be instances where you need to gently open the amniotic sac if necessary. If anything goes wrong, reach out to a veterinarian.
8. During pregnancy, feed the cat small meals throughout the day and switch to kitten food to give her extra protein and energy.
9. Remember to keep the bed blankets clean and create a warm space where the pregnant cat feels comfortable.
10. After the birth, give the cat and her kittens some time to settle before interacting with them. It's your responsibility to take care of the kittens during their first few weeks of life.

By adhering to these guidelines, you will make certain that your expecting feline receives the necessary care and experiences a secure and pleasant transition into being a mother.

And that wraps up today's article.

If you wish to read more of my useful articles, I recommend you check out some of these: Why Do Cats Purr and Knead, Why Cat Hump Blanket, Cat Growling After Giving Birth, Cat Meowing Purring After Giving Birth, and Pregnant Cat Pooping Everywhere

Talk soon,

-Sarah Davis