Expert: Jessica - 11/19/2009

Question
please csn u help me,my cat Cheeky is pregnant for the first time and i dont know when she is due.She has a big bulge both sides and they are hard as rock.She hides under the bed all the time and her urine is very strong like amonia.She was eating all the time none stop now she is picking and im worried about her.Before she was pregnant she was so loverable now she doesnt want you to pat her unless she wants too.I dont know if its the heat but she continuing to stay under our bed.She loves her pellets now she wont touch it for a day or so.when she walks she is all bulging out sides,u can see her nipples clearly now and i dont know if she is ready to have the kittens.please help me as this is my baby cat i love

Answer
Hi Kym.  It sounds like Cheeky could be entering labor.  When the sides buldge out more than usual and they are extremely hard, this can indicate contractions.  Many cats also have a lack of appetite for a day or two before they deliver, and some cats go into hiding (other cats become extremely clingy).  None of these signs concern me too greatly for a cat who is very pregnant, and they all sound like delivery is very near, most likely within the next day or two.  However, if she doesn't deliver within that time, then it would cause concern, and she should see a vet to see if something has gone wrong.  She needs to start eating normally again very soon.

The one sign that worries me a little is that her urine smells of ammonia.  This often indicates a urinary tract infection, because it's bacteria that can convert salts in the urine, called nitrates, into ammonia.  Ammonia isn't a normal substance in urine.  So it would probably be a good idea to get her to the vet to check her out, just to be sure, especially if you are noticing that she's using the litter box frequently (or going outside frequently) or is urinating in small amounts.

Best wishes on your upcoming litter!

Jessica