How long do a cat's contractions last? - briefly
The duration of a cat's contractions can vary but typically last for approximately 10-30 minutes per contraction phase. During labor, cats may experience these phases intermittently until all kittens are delivered.
How long do a cat's contractions last? - in detail
The duration of a cat's contractions during labor can vary depending on several factors, including the individual cat's physiology, the number of kittens she is carrying, and whether this is her first litter or not. On average, each contraction typically lasts between 15 to 30 seconds.
During the initial stages of labor, known as the dilation phase, contractions may be less frequent and shorter in duration, occurring every 10 to 20 minutes. As labor progresses into the active phase, contractions become more intense and frequent, occurring every 5 to 10 minutes. At this stage, each contraction can last between 30 seconds to a minute or even longer, with peaks lasting around 45 seconds.
It is important to note that while contractions are a normal part of the birthing process, if they become too frequent or prolonged without producing any kittens, it may indicate a problem such as dystocia. In such cases, veterinary intervention may be necessary to ensure the safe delivery of the kittens and the health of the mother cat.
In addition to monitoring the duration of contractions, observing the cat's overall behavior and progress during labor is crucial. Signs of distress or prolonged labor without any progress can indicate underlying issues that require immediate attention from a veterinary professional.