Many parents-to-be talk about how their cat or dog seemed to “sense” the pregnancy even before the official announcement. They mention pets that suddenly become more clingy, protective, or, on the contrary, a little disturbed.
These behaviors are rather intriguing and raise a question: are our pets able to detect pregnancy? They have a developed sense of smell, strong intuition, and sensitivity to changes in daily life. However, the answer is more nuanced than we think.
A keen sense of smell and strong intuition
With their remarkable sense of smell and emotional sensitivity, dogs and cats are often able to detect subtle changes in their owners. Hormonal changes, behavioral variations, and disrupted routines. These are all signals that can catch their attention long before you announce your pregnancy.
First rule out a health problem
Before jumping to conclusions, it is essential to visit the vet to rule out any medical causes. Once any pathological causes have been eliminated, it is entirely possible that your pet is reacting to your hormonal changes. In fact, dogs whose owners are undergoing hormone treatments sometimes exhibit unusual behavior themselves.
Sensitivity to everyday changes
Beyond their sense of smell, dogs and cats are also very attentive to gestures, routines, and attitudes of those who live with them. Simple changes in daily life, such as moving furniture to prepare a baby's room, can upset an animal. Some may then show signs of stress or behave in ways similar to jealousy.
How do you help your pet adapt?
To support your pet during this transition period, give them a little extra attention every day and gradually get them used to new objects, especially those intended for the future baby, such as the crib, before your baby arrives.
So, even without understanding pregnancy in the human sense of the term, pets can still perceive the signs and react in their own way.
Originally written by Agathe Warlop (Yummypets) and translated by Jennifer Eubank (Yummypets).
Source: National Geographic
