How to understand that a cat's labor is over? - briefly
To determine that a cat's labor is over, observe the absence of contractions and the cessation of active pushing efforts. Typically, the cat will show signs of relaxation and may begin to clean and nurse the kittens.
Several indicators can confirm the completion of labor:
- The cat has delivered all the kittens. This can be verified by counting the kittens against the number of fetuses detected during a prenatal examination.
- The cat's behavior returns to normal. She will no longer exhibit signs of distress or discomfort associated with labor.
- The cat's body temperature stabilizes. During labor, a cat's temperature may drop slightly, but it should return to normal after delivery.
- The cat's appetite returns. After labor, the cat will typically resume eating and drinking within a short period.
- The placenta is expelled. Most cats will deliver the placenta shortly after each kitten. Ensure that all placentas are accounted for, as retained placentas can lead to complications.
How to understand that a cat's labor is over? - in detail
Determining when a cat's labor is over involves observing several key indicators. The process of feline labor, also known as queening, typically occurs in three stages: the first stage involves preparation, the second stage is the actual delivery of kittens, and the third stage includes the expulsion of the placenta and afterbirth. Understanding these stages is crucial for recognizing when labor has concluded.
During the first stage, the cat may exhibit signs of restlessness, nesting behavior, and increased vocalization. This stage can last from a few hours to a full day. The second stage begins with the cat actively pushing and delivering kittens. Each kitten is usually born within 10 to 60 minutes of the previous one, although this can vary. The cat will typically lick each kitten to stimulate breathing and remove the amniotic sac. After all kittens have been delivered, the third stage commences. During this phase, the cat will expel the placenta and afterbirth. This process can take several hours, and it is normal for the cat to pass one or more placentas after each kitten.
To confirm that labor is over, observe the following signs:
- The cat appears calm and relaxed, showing no further signs of straining or pushing.
- All kittens have been delivered, and the cat is nursing them.
- The cat has passed all placentas. It is essential to count the number of placentas to ensure that each kitten has been delivered safely. If there are any retained placentas, it can lead to complications such as infection or postpartum hemorrhage.
- The cat's behavior returns to normal, indicating that she is no longer in labor.
It is also important to monitor the cat's temperature, as it typically returns to normal after labor. A persistent high temperature or signs of discomfort may indicate a postpartum complication.
In summary, recognizing the end of a cat's labor involves observing the completion of all three stages of labor, ensuring all kittens and placentas have been delivered, and noting the cat's return to a calm and relaxed state. If there are any concerns or complications, it is advisable to consult with a veterinarian for further guidance and support.