False Pregnancy (Pseudopregnancy)
What is it?
False pregnancy (pseudopregnancy) is uncommon in cats. It occurs when a cat has been induced to ovulate but did not conceive.
What signs should I watch for?
Signs can include mammary gland development with milk production and behavior changes, such as acting as if she is pregnant or has given birth.
How is it diagnosed and treated?
Your veterinarian can rule out a true pregnancy with the history, an exam, and X-rays or ultrasound. Treatment is usually not recommended because the condition usually ends on its own in one to three weeks and treatments can have significant side effects. Do not milk out the mammary glands, which only stimulates more milk.
Can it be prevented, and what's the outlook?
If your cat has repeated episodes, spaying will stop them from happening again.
Reviewed by the Adler Veterinary Hospital veterinary team, October 2026.
Unspayed female cats after ovulating without pregnancy
Who's at risk:
Enlarged mammary glands, milk, nesting or mothering behavior
Main signs:
Schedule a visit soon
Urgency:
When to call a vet right away
- Hot, swollen or painful mammary glands
- Milk that looks abnormal in color or thickness
- Fever, depression, poor appetite or lethargy
Not sure whether it can wait? Call us anyway. Our team can help you decide.
Source:
Related conditions
Neonatal Isoerythrolysis
Eclampsia (Milk Fever)
Pregnancy Nutrition