A pregnant cat with a small belly might be due to several reasons, including an early stage of pregnancy where the belly hasn't noticeably grown, a smaller litter size, or even nutritional deficiencies. It's essential to consider these factors when assessing your cat's pregnancy.
One common reason for a small belly in a pregnant cat is the early stage of gestation. A cat's pregnancy typically lasts around 62 days, and during the initial weeks, there might not be any visible belly enlargement. Therefore, a small belly during this phase is usually a normal physiological response. Another possibility is that the cat's diet is inadequate, leading to insufficient nutrient intake. This can result in the cat being underweight, which affects fetal development and makes the abdominal expansion less noticeable. In such cases, it's recommended to enrich the cat's diet with high-quality protein to provide ample nutrition. If your pregnant cat’s belly is small, and you're concerned, it's important to consult a vet. A lack of proper nutrition may also cause a small abdomen size. Therefore, feeding your pregnant cat a high-quality diet is of great importance. Keep an eye on your cat's eating habits and behavior, especially if it has a small belly.
If a cat appears to be pregnant but her abdomen is smaller than expected, this could be a result of her not eating enough and suffering from malnourishment, which in turn may result in a less pronounced belly. Keep in mind that adequate nutrition is crucial during pregnancy. Therefore, consulting a veterinarian is always a good idea when you notice changes in your pregnant cat. Moreover, cats that have small litters may also have smaller bellies. Therefore, it is important to keep in mind the possibility of a small litter.
In some cases, if the cat's abdomen isn't growing, it's possible that she might be experiencing a false pregnancy. False pregnancy, also known as pseudopregnancy, is mainly caused by hormonal imbalances within the cat's body. If you are in doubt, consult your veterinarian who will be able to diagnose your cat's health condition properly. Early veterinary intervention can help to prevent further issues and ensure both mom and kittens have a healthy pregnancy. If you notice your pregnant cat's belly is smaller than expected, seek veterinary attention for proper assessment and care.