Why isn’t my cat pregnant after mating?

Answered by Frank Schwing

There could be several reasons why your cat is not getting pregnant after mating. One possible reason is that the queen (female cat) may not have been mated enough times or at the right time during her estrous cycle. Cats are induced ovulators, which means that ovulation is triggered by the act of mating. If a queen is not mated enough times, it can interfere with the release of eggs and result in failed ovulation.

Timing is also crucial when it comes to successful mating and pregnancy in cats. The queen is typically receptive to mating during a specific period known as estrus or heat. If she is mated too early or too late in her cycle, it may not coincide with her fertile period, leading to unsuccessful fertilization.

Incomplete intercourse can also be a factor. If mating is interrupted before ejaculation occurs, the sperm may not be deposited in the queen’s reproductive tract, reducing the chances of fertilization.

Additionally, uterine conditions can impact a cat’s ability to become pregnant. In some cases, the queen may have an infection or inflammation in the uterus, known as endometritis, which can interfere with successful pregnancy. Uterine abnormalities, such as cysts or tumors, can also affect fertility.

It’s important to note that not all matings result in pregnancy, even under ideal conditions. Fertility can vary among individual cats, and there are many factors involved in the reproductive process. If you have been trying to breed your cat and she has not become pregnant, it may be worth consulting with a veterinarian who specializes in feline reproduction. They can evaluate your cat’s overall health, assess any potential underlying issues, and provide guidance on optimizing the chances of successful breeding.