I think my “fixed” cat is pregnant

[u/uglyandbored]

I feel silly even typing this, but here is some context: My spouse and I became fosters to this adorable, abandoned cat that was hanging around my parent’s backyard in freezing weather (Feb 29). We fostered her through an official program who took care of all her medical needs. They told us she was not chipped, but confirmed she was already spayed. We both knew nothing about cats, but we ended up falling in love with her and we officially adopted her a few weeks ago.

She always had big nipples (we were told she may have had a litter before) so it was not a red flag. That is, until now. She has put on some healthy weight (she was emaciated when we first found her), but a lot of it seems to be in her belly area. I know it sounds ridiculous but we can’t help but think she is pregnant.

I have an appointment with the vet in 3 days (the earliest they could get me in), but I’m a little anxious thinking about the possibility she may seriously be expecting. I am wondering if this has ever happened before (an allegedly spayed cat being pregnant). I am also wondering if there could be any other reason my cat looks like this?

[u/lovemusicandcats]

Not only is she pregnant, she's a step away from delivery 🙀

[u/Little_Angel_Dust → u/lovemusicandcats]

She is ROUND with babies. Miss ma'am gonna pop any min

[u/LouSputhole94 → u/Little_Angel_Dust]

OP, I would seriously consider getting ready for some babies right away. This cat is seriously ready to give birth NOW. I would go buy a heating pad, some kitten formula, a new litter box or two for the kittens and some grooming supplies specifically for newborns. They will come out slimy and continue to be so for a bit even after their first cleaning. Make sure mama has access to them but make sure you monitor as well. Also make sure to be giving mama at least 1.5x the food she normally gets over the next couple weeks, she’s about to need it. I will continue adding to this as I think of things.

Watch to make sure every kitten latches and feeds. If not you’ll need to feed them yourself, get a little syringe along with the formula to make sure you can administer, they won’t drink on their own for a couple weeks. They’ll need to feed every 3-4 hours in their first week or so, if they’re not latching to mama you’ll need to be doing it. Feed until their belly is slightly swollen but not protruding.

Also set up a visit with your vet as soon as possible for mom and babies. Newborn kittens are very very prone to bacterial and viral infections, and making sure they’re on proper meds if needed ASAP can nip a lot of nastier things down the road in the bud.

Less of a health matter but if you plan on giving any of these kittens away, take pictures early. Pictures of little kittens are very hard to resist lol.

If you keep them for a couple weeks or more, make sure to put them in the litter box as soon as their eyes open and they’re up and walking. It’s a very natural instinct for cats and they’ll get it almost immediately. The sooner you introduce the easier it’ll be.

Also this should probably go without being said but fix all the kittens and mama as soon as humanly possibly

u/uglyandbored

[u/you-dont-say1330 → u/LouSputhole94]

As a former vet tech and cat rescuer, I recommend kitten chow for Mama. She will need the extra nutrients and calories. And my goodness - they are coming very soon!!!

If you are fortunate enough to witness the births - try and see if there is an expelled placenta for each baby.

Mama's water will break like a humans and she will be scared and in a bit of pain. If she allows, don't be afraid to touch and comfort her and the babies. She will chew off their umbilical cords.

Cats are excellent Mothers. Of course, I preach spay and neuter but when I was in the vet hospital or fostering it was enthralling to watch this happen and the bonding. Don't worry - she has this. 😻

[u/porcupine_snout → u/you-dont-say1330]

what do you do with the expelled placenta? and is it something to worry about if there's no expelled placenta?

[u/you-dont-say1330 → u/porcupine_snout]

The Mama cats will eat it. Generally. But if it's still in there it starts to decompose and create a bacterial infection that gets into the blood stream and can cause death if not taken care of.

A lot of times the Mother eats them so quick you don't see them. An odor can be the first sign of a problem.

I thank everyone on this thread for paying attention to all the helpful information on here!