If you ever asked a question concerning your cat’s nipples, you will find the answers here. You may be wondering… “Who the heck would be talking about cat nipples!?”. Well, I guess I am and plenty of people are curious! I know it is a funny subject but you may learn something new. So here are the most common questions asked on Google about feline nipples! Woo!

Do Male Cats Have Nipples?

Yes! Like other male mammals, male cats have nipples too! It is believed that the nipples are developed in the womb of mammals before the sex is determined. This is why males have nipples, even though they don’t really have any purpose.

How Many Nipples Does a Cat Have?

There isn’t one set answer for this. Cats almost always have an even amount but cats have been known to have odd amounts as well. As for the number, cats can have as little as 4, but as many as 10! The average number being 6. Yes, this includes male cats as well! Some kittens from the same litter may have different amounts. You can have 2 kittens with 6 nipples and 4 kittens with 8 nipples. Sex doesn’t change the number, but purely genetics.

Is Nipple Size a Sign of Pregnancy?

Sure is! When a female cat is pregnant, much like other mammals, her nipples will change. Around 35 days, her nipples will become bright pink and larger. This is because the breasts are preparing to feed the kittens. Everything swells up and becomes sensitive.

Think your cat is pregnant? Check out Is My Cat Pregnant? for information on what to do next!

Where Are Cat Nipples Located?

When looking for a cat’s nipples, you have to look on the belly. Unlike humans, cats have nipples below the chest area. You will find them in even rows an inch or two away from the pelvis. Because of fur, it may be hard to find all of them but two can be found on the fine fur lining of the lower belly. Some cats do have balding around the nipples making them very visible but this is completely normal and nothing to worry about. If you notice the bald spots are getting larger and they are becoming uneven in shape (often caused by excessive licking), it could be a sign of an infection or skin irritation on the nipple. If you notice any swelling or discharge and your cat is not pregnant, take them into a vet ASAP. Shaved cat belly showing the nipples

Photo Credit: The Mad Cat Lady

Do Cats Leak Milk? Is It Normal?

Just like pregnant women, pregnant cats can leak milk just the same! This is actually quite common and normal. You may see her licking it off but do not worry, it is perfectly fine. She likely doesn’t like her fur being wet. Leaking nipples doesn’t necessarily mean your cat is close to giving birth. It can happen anytime throughout the pregnancy but it is more likely to happen the closer to birthing she is.