How to help a cat give birth to the afterbirth? - briefly
If your cat is having difficulty expelling the placenta (afterbirth) during or after labor, gently massage her abdomen to stimulate contractions. If the placenta does not pass within 10-15 minutes, contact a veterinarian immediately for assistance.
How to help a cat give birth to the afterbirth? - in detail
Helping a cat deliver her placenta is a crucial part of the birthing process, as it ensures the health and well-being of both the mother and her kittens. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to assist your cat during this phase:
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Monitoring the Birth: During labor, cats typically deliver their kittens quickly, with each birth followed by a short rest period. After delivering each kitten, the mother will usually start licking and cleaning it to stimulate breathing and bonding.
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Identifying the Placenta: Once all the kittens have been born, the cat should begin to pass the placenta within 10-30 minutes. Each kitten has its own placenta, so if there are four kittens, you should expect four placentas. The placenta is a dark red, jelly-like sac that nourished the kitten during pregnancy.
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Ensuring Complete Delivery: It’s important to ensure that all placentas have been delivered. Count the number of placentas to make sure they match the number of kittens. If one or more placentas are retained, it can lead to serious health issues for the mother, such as infection and sepsis.
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Examining the Placenta: Once all placentas have been expelled, examine them to ensure they are complete. A complete placenta should be smooth and uniform in color. If you notice any torn or missing pieces, it may indicate a retained placenta.
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Cleaning Up: After confirming that all placentas have been delivered, clean the birthing area thoroughly. This helps prevent infection and creates a healthy environment for the new family. Use warm water and a gentle soap to clean the area where the kittens were born.
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Monitoring the Mother Cat: Keep a close eye on the mother cat after delivery. She should be nursing her kittens frequently, which helps to stimulate milk production and ensures that the kittens are getting the necessary nutrients. If she shows any signs of lethargy, loss of appetite, or abnormal discharge, contact your veterinarian immediately.
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Seeking Veterinary Care: If you suspect that not all placentas have been delivered or if the mother cat is showing signs of illness, do not hesitate to seek professional help. A veterinarian can perform an examination and, if necessary, administer medication to assist with placenta delivery and prevent infection.
By following these steps, you can effectively support your cat during the birthing process and ensure a safe and healthy outcome for both her and her kittens.