Expert: Jessica - 12/16/2010

Question
my cat is 11 yrs old and was spayed some years ago after having some litters .she is now showing every sign of pregnancy ,large tummy .engorged teats ,increased appetite ,sleeping a lot and hiding in cupboards .do you think she could be pregnant or have a phantom ? is it possible as it is in humans that have had tubes tied ? thankyou .

Answer
Hi Lynn,

It isn't possible for a spayed cat to become pregnant, as the procedure is actually much more similar to a hysterectomy than a tubal ligation (having ones tubes tied).  Spaying is medically known as an ovariohysterectomy, which means they have removed the ovaries and the uterus.  So cats who have been properly spayed lack the ability to produce eggs and the ability to foster growing fetuses.

It might be possible that she is experiencing a pseudo-pregnancy.  These are relatively uncommon in cats and would probably indicate that she has suffered something known as Ovarian Remnant Syndrome, which results when a piece of an ovary is inadvertantly left behind during spay surgery.  This can cause the cat to continue to have hormonal surges and go into heat, etc.  It's best to have this diagnosed and have a second surgery done to remove the missed ovarian tissue.

However, I would be concerned, as some of the symptoms you mentioned might suggest a medical problem.  Engorged teats can be normal for some cats, but it could be the first sign of mammary cancer.  Sleeping a lot and hiding in cupboards could also simply be a new habit, but it might indicate lethargy and social withdrawal, which can be signs of illness.  I would recommend to have your kitty checked over by a vet, just to be on the safe side.

Good luck!

Jessica