Should I expect kittens?

Question
Hi,

  I am pretty sure that my cat is pregnant.  I saw her mating about 4 weeks ago.  I just want to know if it is normal for a cat to go 4 weeks without going into heat.  I was told that this is a definite sign that she is pregnant.  However, does the weather control her cycles? The weather around here has been very odd, so could this be causing her not to go into heat?  Does a cat's estrus stop when she has been mated, or does she have to become pregnant?  Also, at what point does a cat's abdomen become noticeably larger when pregnant?

Thanks so much,

Jessica

Answer
Hi Jessica.  If your cat was in season (usually happens 4 times a year) and you haven't seen her have a period yet, then it's a pretty good chance that she's pregnant.  The weather doesn't really control her menstrual cycle, it's generally around 4 times a year - once per season.  A cat's period will not stop if she has been taken... you know what I mean... however if she DOES become pregnant, then yes, she will stop her period.  A cat's belly grows depending on the number of babies that she is carrying - which can be anywhere from 1 - 10.  It depends on the size of the babes etc, however usually around 3-4 weeks Mummy's belly will start to get quite large and very solid.

Good luck!