Why Do Cats Seem Drawn to Pregnant Women?
It’s a common belief that cats can sense pregnancy even before a woman knows she’s expecting. You may have noticed your cat becoming more affectionate, following you everywhere, nuzzling and purring more, or even rubbing against or sleeping on your stomach when you’re newly pregnant. Many pet owners observe this behavior and assume their cat must intuitively know that a baby is on the way.
But is it true that cats have a sixth sense about pregnancy? Or is there another explanation for why cats hang around pregnant women? In this article, we’ll explore the evidence behind feline behavior changes during human pregnancy and what’s really going on with cats and expectant mothers.
Theories About This Behavior
There are two main theories that attempt to explain why cats may hang around pregnant women more often:
Pheromone Theory
One theory is that cats may be able to detect pheromones or hormones emitted by pregnant women. As noted in an article on Healthline, “We keep talking about cats ‘knowing’ that you’re pregnant, but that implies a cognitive awareness that they just don’t possess. (Yes, your cat is smart, but not that smart.) What’s more likely is that your cat is responding to the changes in smell that accompany pregnancy” (https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/can-cats-sense-pregnancy). Cats have a strong sense of smell, so they may be attracted to the shift in hormones.
Nesting Instinct Theory
Another explanation is that cats exhibit more protective and nurturing behavior due to a nesting instinct. As explained on Cats.com, “It’s possible that some cats see a pregnant owner as part of their family unit and become more protective and attentive as a result” (https://cats.com/can-cats-sense-pregnancy). Their instincts may drive them to watch over and bond with a pregnant human.
Scientific Research
There have been several scientific studies that have looked at cats’ ability to detect pregnancy in humans. One study published in Healthline found that cats may be able to detect subtle changes in human behavior during pregnancy, but they do not specifically know that a woman is pregnant. The changes in behavior that cats may notice include:
- Morning sickness or changes in eating habits
- Increased sleeping
- Changes in body temperature
- Changes in hormones
While cats can pick up on these behavioral cues, the study concluded that cats do not actually understand the biological state of pregnancy itself. Their response is simply a reaction to the observable changes in human behavior and environment during pregnancy.
Another study from Flo Health supports this finding. They state that cats do not have a sixth sense about knowing when a woman is pregnant specifically. Any changes in behavior by cats towards pregnant woman are likely due to cats picking up on subtle physical and behavioral changes, not an innate knowledge of the pregnancy itself.
Overall, the scientific consensus seems to be that while cats may react differently to a pregnant woman, they do not have an innate ability to sense or recognize pregnancy itself. Their behaviors are reactions to observable changes in the environment and human behavior during pregnancy.
Anecdotal Experiences
Many pregnant women report noticing their cats acting differently towards them after becoming pregnant. According to one woman, “Within a week of finding out I was pregnant, my normally aloof cat started curling up on my belly whenever I laid down and purring up a storm.” (https://www.clearblue.com/am-i-pregnant/can-cats-sense-pregnancy)
On online forums, pregnant women share stories of their cats suddenly becoming very attached and protective after pregnancy. One woman wrote, “My cat usually keeps to herself, but ever since I got pregnant she follows me everywhere, sleeps right next to my belly at night, and gets between me and other people – like she’s guarding me and the baby!” (https://flo.health/getting-pregnant/trying-to-conceive/signs-of-pregnancy/can-cats-sense-pregnancy)
While anecdotal, these reports from countless women indicate cats may somehow sense and respond to the physiological changes that occur with pregnancy.
Expert Opinion
Veterinarians and animal behavior experts have weighed in on cats’ abilities to detect pregnancy. Dr. Jessica Vogelsang, a veterinarian, notes that cats don’t truly understand the concept of pregnancy, but they do recognize changes in a woman’s behavior and scent that tip them off: “Cats don’t track actual pregnancy, per se, but they do exhibit behaviors that make it appear they do.”
Animal behaviorist Roger Mugford explains that cats mainly rely on their powerful sense of smell and ability to detect changes in human pheromones. A pregnant woman experiences major hormonal shifts, which cats may be able to detect. However, Mugford states there is no scientific evidence confirming cats can reliably sense human pregnancy.
While the notion of cats sensing pregnancy is not backed by hard science, experts acknowledge cats can pick up on subtle physical and emotional changes that tip them off. Increased affection from cats during pregnancy may be their reaction to those changes.
Reasons for Bond
Cats bond closely with pregnant owners for a variety of reasons. One of the main reasons is that pregnancy satisfies several requirements cats have – namely food, warmth, and attention.
Pregnant women tend to eat more frequently, providing cats with more opportunities to beg for food or scavenge extra scraps (1). The increase in food intake results in more food waste and plates left out, which cats capitalize on.
Additionally, pregnant women tend to run warmer due to increased metabolism and blood circulation. Cats love cuddling up to warm bodies, so they snuggle up to pregnant owners more. The extra warmth is appealing.
Finally, hormonal changes during pregnancy cause mood swings and extra need for comfort. Pregnant women often pet, cuddle, and dote on their cats more during this time. Cats enjoy and seek out the increased attention and affection.
In summary, cats bond closely with expecting owners because pregnancy results in more available food, greater warmth, and heightened attention – all of which cats crave and require.
Special Connection
Some women report feeling an especially strong bond with cats during pregnancy. This may be due to hormonal changes that increase a pregnant woman’s maternal instincts and need to nurture. Cats are drawn to these maternal vibes, as it represents safety and care for future offspring. The woman’s changing pheromones and energy attracts cats who recognize she will soon have kittens of her own. Cats have an astute sense of smell and intuition that makes them particularly sensitive to shifts during pregnancy.
There is likely an element of mutual understanding between a pregnant woman and cats. The woman feels more protective, while cats pick up on vulnerable cues and exhibit gentle, comforting behavior. Cats seem to inherently grasp the significance of pregnancy and want to provide support. This instinctive rapport creates a special closeness.
Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/toxoplasmosis/gen_info/pregnant.html
https://www.samitivejhospitals.com/article/detail/toxoplasmosis-cat-feces-disease
Benefits
Having a loving cat companion during pregnancy can provide many benefits for an expectant mother. According to a 2021 study published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8508333/), relationships with pets have been shown to reduce stress and provide social support during major life events such as pregnancy and childbirth. The study states that the “non-judgmental companionship” of pets helps regulate emotions and enables relaxation.
An article on The Cat Nip Times (https://www.thecatniptimes.com/learn/cat-science/how-cats-affect-mental-health-during-pregnancy/) explains that a cat’s soothing purr and gentle affection releases dopamine and serotonin in expectant mothers, providing comfort and helping them feel more relaxed during pregnancy. The companionship of a caring cat can also help relieve pregnancy-related anxieties and worries. Having a furry friend by their side during this transformative time can be a great source of unconditional support.
Considerations
When preparing for a new baby’s arrival, there are some important considerations to make regarding your cat. Proper hygiene and introducing your cat to the new family member are key.
It’s important to keep litter boxes away from places where the baby will be, like the nursery. Scoop litter boxes daily to prevent germs from building up. Wear gloves when cleaning litter boxes and thoroughly wash hands afterwards (Verywell Family), as toxoplasmosis from cat feces can be harmful for pregnant women and newborns. Keep cats off baby furniture and limit access to the baby’s room (WebMD), to reduce dander and germ exposure.
Get your cat used to baby sounds before the arrival by playing recordings of crying and gurgling. Let the cat inspect baby items so they become familiar smells. Set up a separate space for the cat to retreat to if feeling stressed. Spend one-on-one time with your cat daily so they don’t get jealous. Introduce the baby slowly while providing positive reinforcement to the cat. With preparation and patience, you can help your cat adjust to the new family addition.
Conclusion
In summary, many cat owners have noticed that cats seem attracted to and affectionate with pregnant women. While the research is limited, there are several theories that may explain this behavior. The leading explanations are that cats may sense hormonal changes, be intrigued by the sounds of the fetus, or have a protective instinct towards pregnant women. While more scientific studies are needed, the anecdotal experiences of many cat owners confirm this unique bond. Whatever the reasons, it’s clear that cats can form a special connection with expectant mothers. This may provide comfort and stress relief for the woman during pregnancy. As long as the cat is gentle and the woman takes proper hygiene precautions, this can be a heartwarming experience for both.