Pseudopregnancy (false pregnancy)

Pseudopregnancy is a hormonally driven state in which an intact, non-pregnant female develops physical and behavioral signs of pregnancy weeks after a heat cycle. Falling progesterone and rising prolactin trigger mammary enlargement, milk production, nesting, and mothering of objects. It is usually self-limiting and resolves without treatment, though severe cases may need medical management. It is most common in dogs and is generally not dangerous.