If a cat gives birth poorly, what should I do? - briefly
If your cat is having difficulty giving birth, promptly contact your veterinarian for professional assistance. In the meantime, keep the birthing area clean and warm to support the health of both the mother and her kittens.
If a cat gives birth poorly, what should I do? - in detail
If you find that your cat is having difficulty giving birth, it's crucial to act promptly and calmly. Here are some steps to guide you through this situation:
First, assess the cat's condition. Look for signs of distress such as excessive meowing, pacing, or restlessness. Also, check if there is any discharge from the vagina that appears abnormal or foul-smelling. If you notice any of these symptoms, it may indicate a problem with the birthing process.
Next, monitor the cat's behavior closely. Cats typically give birth to one kitten every 30 minutes to an hour. If more than two hours have passed since the last kitten and there is no sign of further labor, contact your veterinarian immediately. Similarly, if you observe that the cat is straining but not producing any kittens, this could signal a problem like uterine inertia or a breech presentation.
In cases where a kitten is partially delivered (you can see its head or legs), do not attempt to pull it out yourself as this can cause injury to both the kitten and the mother. Instead, support the cat by keeping her calm and warm. Place a towel under her for comfort and ensure she has access to fresh water.
If you detect that the cat's abdomen is hard and she appears to be in pain but no kittens are being delivered, this could indicate a life-threatening condition such as eclampsia (low calcium levels). In this situation, administering calcium gluconate can be lifesaving. However, it's crucial that you have prior training and guidance from your veterinarian on how to do this safely.
Throughout the birthing process, maintain a clean environment to prevent infections. Have clean towels and gloves ready, and avoid handling the kittens unless absolutely necessary. After each kitten is born, ensure that the cat licks it to stimulate breathing and bonding. If the kitten does not start breathing within a few minutes, you may need to perform gentle mouth-to-snout resuscitation.
In summary, if your cat is having difficulty giving birth, stay calm and observe her closely for any signs of distress. Contact your veterinarian promptly if you notice abnormalities or if the birthing process seems prolonged. Avoid intervening directly unless you have been trained to do so, as improper handling can lead to serious complications.