My cat isn't biting off the umbilical cord of her kitten, what should I do? - briefly
If a cat does not bite off the umbilical cord of her kitten, immediate intervention is necessary. Gently use sterile scissors or a clean, sharp blade to cut the cord about an inch from the kitten's belly, then tie it off with sterile thread or dental floss.
My cat isn't biting off the umbilical cord of her kitten, what should I do? - in detail
When a cat fails to bite through the umbilical cord of her newborn kitten, it can be a concerning situation, but there are steps you can take to ensure the safety and health of both the mother and her kitten. It is essential to act promptly and carefully.
Firstly, it is crucial to remain calm and ensure that the birthing environment is clean and quiet. Stress can negatively affect both the mother cat and her kittens. If the mother cat has not bitten through the umbilical cord, you will need to do so yourself. Here are the detailed steps to follow:
Prepare the necessary supplies:
- Sterile scissors or surgical scissors
- Sterile thread or dental floss
- Antiseptic solution (such as chlorhexidine or betadine)
- Clean towels or cloths
- Gloves
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, and put on gloves to maintain a sterile environment. Gently clean the area around the kitten's umbilical cord with the antiseptic solution. This will help prevent infection.
Using the sterile scissors, carefully cut the umbilical cord about an inch away from the kitten's belly. Be extremely careful not to cut too close to the kitten's body, as this can cause injury. Tie off the cut end of the umbilical cord with the sterile thread or dental floss to stop any bleeding. Make a double knot to ensure it is secure.
After tying off the cord, apply a small amount of the antiseptic solution to the tied-off end to further prevent infection. Monitor the kitten closely for any signs of bleeding or infection. If bleeding occurs, apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth until it stops.
It is also important to ensure that the kitten is breathing and nursing properly. Newborn kittens should start nursing within a few hours of birth. If the kitten is not nursing, you may need to assist with feeding using a kitten milk replacer and a small syringe or bottle designed for kittens.
If you encounter any complications or if the mother cat or kitten shows signs of distress, it is imperative to seek veterinary care immediately. A veterinarian can provide professional assistance and ensure that both the mother and her kitten receive the necessary medical attention.
Regularly observe the kitten for the next few days to ensure that the umbilical cord heals properly and that there are no signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge. Keep the birthing area clean and warm to support the health and well-being of the mother cat and her kitten.
In summary, while it is concerning when a mother cat does not bite through the umbilical cord, taking immediate and careful action can help ensure the safety of the kitten. Preparing the necessary supplies, cutting and tying off the umbilical cord, and monitoring for any signs of complications are essential steps in this process. Always be prepared to seek veterinary assistance if needed to ensure the best possible outcome for both the mother cat and her kitten.