‘What Does This Mean?’ – ryan

The owner of a pregnant cat started worrying when their cat kept bringing them to her birthing box, prompting Reddit users to ask why she would do that. Newsweek spoke to a veterinarian who explained this behavior.

“I’m still not entirely sure if my cat is pregnant, she’s very furry so her fur makes it hard to see her belly (though I am a good 80 percent sure),” the cat owner wrote in a post shared in April under the username u/SnooPears3163.

“The past day she’s been meowing at me and bringing me to her box so I can pet her while she lays down, does this mean she’s close to labor?” the caption continues, as pictures show the cat lying in a box covered in blankets.

Dr. Michelle Dulake, co-founder and CEO of Fera Pets, told Newsweek that this behavior is actually a pretty common and natural behavior for a pregnant cat.

“As their due date approaches, many cats begin to exhibit nesting behaviors, which includes seeking out a safe, quiet, and private space to give birth. The act of dragging her owner to her birthing box so that she can be petted there is likely her way of seeking reassurance and comfort.

“This behavior is a sign that she is feeling a bit vulnerable and is looking to you for comfort, which is quite normal. Cats can be very instinctive in their need for companionship when they’re in a heightened emotional state like pregnancy,” she said.

According to Dulake, pregnancy can make your cat feel somewhat anxious, but you can help by petting her, calming her nerves and building a connection as she approaches delivery.

“While it’s reassuring that the cat is seeking comfort from you, it’s also important to ensure that she has a calm, peaceful environment to give birth. As her labor draws closer, you may notice other signs like nesting behaviors, increased vocalization, or changes in appetite,” she added.

You can help your cat during this process by ensuring her birthing box is clean, comfortable and in a quiet area of your home that feels safe and secluded. And by monitoring her behavior for any signs of complications.

“If she appears to be struggling, or you’re uncertain about her condition at any point, don’t hesitate to reach out to your vet. Pregnancy and labor can be a stressful time for a cat, and being proactive in seeking care can ensure the best outcome for both her and her kittens.”

Moreover, she said, a pregnant cat’s nutritional needs change as her pregnancy progresses, so it’s essential to feed her a high-quality, nutritionally balanced diet specifically designed for pregnant or nursing cats, and that she has access to fresh water at all times.

In a later post, the cat’s owner confirmed that the tabby was pregnant and that she did later go into labor, although no updates on her or the kittens have been posted yet.

The video quickly went viral on social media and has so far received over 20,000 upvotes and 360 comments on the platform.

One user, Moss-cle, said: “I had a cat who wanted to give birth in my lap. I stayed next to her box with her.”

Shinobipopcorn wrote: “Smols imminent. She just wants some support and a guard to keep the predators away.”

Another user, Urielriel added: “In case something happens to her she trusts you to care for her offspring.”

Newsweek reached out to @SnooPears3163 for comment. We could not verify the details of the case.

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