How long does a cat's labor last? - briefly
The duration of a cat's labor can vary, but it typically lasts between 10 to 30 minutes per kitten. The entire birthing process may take several hours, depending on the number of kittens and any potential complications.
How long does a cat's labor last? - in detail
A cat's labor is typically divided into three distinct stages, each with its own duration and characteristics.
The first stage of labor is often referred to as the pre-labor or latent phase. During this stage, the cat may exhibit behavioral changes such as restlessness, pacing, and decreased appetite. The uterus begins to contract, preparing for the delivery process. This initial phase can last anywhere from 12 to 36 hours, with an average duration of about 24 hours.
The second stage of labor is the active phase, during which the cat will experience more intense contractions. These contractions help push the kittens through the birth canal. The delivery of each kitten can take between 10 minutes to an hour, depending on various factors such as the size of the litter and the positioning of the kittens. It is not uncommon for cats to have a break of several hours between the delivery of each kitten, especially if it is their first pregnancy or if they are delivering a large litter.
The third stage of labor is the post-labor phase, during which the cat delivers the placenta and afterbirth. This process can take up to 24 hours, with the cat usually expelling one placenta for each kitten delivered. It is crucial that the cat retains all the placentas to prevent potential infections or complications.
In summary, the entire labor process for a cat can vary significantly, but it generally lasts between 6 to 12 hours for the active phase of delivery, with additional time allocated for pre-labor and post-labor activities. If a cat's labor extends beyond 24 hours without any kittens being delivered or if there are signs of distress such as excessive bleeding or lethargy, veterinary intervention should be sought immediately to ensure the health and safety of both the mother and her kittens.