How to understand that the cat no longer has kittens, the labor is over? - briefly
To determine whether a cat has finished giving birth, observe the following signs: the cat will stop straining and pushing, and the maternal instinct will prompt her to begin cleaning and nursing the kittens. Additionally, the cat will typically rest and may even fall asleep between kittens, but if the labor seems prolonged or if there are any signs of distress, consult a veterinarian.
The cat will typically expel the placenta shortly after each kitten is born, and you may notice a decrease in contractions and uterine activity. If the cat appears calm and attentive to her kittens, it is a strong indicator that the labor process is complete. However, it is crucial to monitor the cat for any signs of complications or prolonged labor, as prompt veterinary intervention may be necessary.
How to understand that the cat no longer has kittens, the labor is over? - in detail
Determining whether a cat has finished giving birth and no longer has kittens to deliver requires careful observation and understanding of the birthing process. The labor in cats, also known as queening, typically involves several stages, and recognizing the signs of completion is crucial for the health of both the mother and her kittens.
Firstly, it is essential to monitor the cat's behavior and physical signs. During active labor, the cat will exhibit strong abdominal contractions, restlessness, and vocalization. She may also lick her genital area frequently and show signs of discomfort. Once the kittens have been delivered, the cat will usually become calmer and more focused on cleaning and nurturing her offspring. However, if the cat continues to show signs of straining and discomfort, it may indicate that more kittens are yet to be born.
Another critical indicator is the presence of afterbirth. Each kitten is accompanied by a placenta, which the mother cat will typically expel shortly after delivering a kitten. Counting the number of placentas can help determine if all kittens have been born. If the number of placentas matches the number of kittens, it is likely that the birthing process is complete. However, it is not uncommon for a cat to eat the afterbirth, making this method less reliable.
Observing the cat's genital area can also provide clues. After the delivery of all kittens, the vulva should return to its normal size and appearance. If the vulva remains swollen or if there is continuous discharge, it may indicate that labor is not yet finished.
Additionally, monitoring the cat's temperature can be informative. A cat's body temperature typically drops to around 98-99°F (36.7-37.2°C) just before labor begins. After delivering all kittens, the temperature should return to a normal range of 100.4-102.5°F (38-39.2°C). If the temperature remains low, it may suggest that more kittens are yet to be born.
It is also important to be aware of the typical litter size for the cat's breed. Some breeds, such as Siamese, tend to have smaller litters, while others, like Maine Coons, may have larger litters. Knowing the average litter size can help in estimating the number of kittens to expect and in recognizing when the labor process is complete.
In some cases, complications may arise during labor, and professional veterinary intervention may be necessary. If the cat shows signs of distress, such as prolonged straining without producing a kitten, excessive bleeding, or fever, immediate veterinary care should be sought. A veterinarian can perform an ultrasound or X-ray to confirm if there are any remaining kittens in the uterus.
In summary, recognizing when a cat has finished giving birth involves observing behavioral changes, counting placentas, monitoring the vulva, checking the cat's temperature, and being aware of the breed's typical litter size. If there are any concerns or if the cat exhibits signs of complications, consulting a veterinarian is essential to ensure the health and safety of both the mother and her kittens.