My sphinx cat gave birth, what should I do?

My sphinx cat gave birth, what should I do? - briefly

If your Sphynx cat has given birth, it's crucial to ensure she and her kittens are comfortable and well-fed. Keep them in a quiet, warm environment and monitor their health closely.

My sphinx cat gave birth, what should I do? - in detail

When your Sphynx cat gives birth, it's an exciting but demanding time that requires careful attention and planning. Here are some detailed steps you can follow to ensure both the mother and her kittens remain healthy and comfortable:

  1. Prepare the Birthing Area:

    • Ensure the birthing area is clean, quiet, and warm (around 85-90°F or 29-32°C). You can use a heat lamp or heating pad to maintain this temperature.
    • Provide soft bedding such as blankets or towels for comfort.
    • Keep the area free from drafts and away from other pets to minimize stress.

  2. Monitor the Labor Process:

    • The first stage of labor involves contractions and usually lasts 1-3 hours.
    • In the second stage, the kittens are born. This can take 1-6 hours, with kittens being delivered every 30-60 minutes apart.
    • The third stage involves the expulsion of the placenta, which should follow each kitten's birth within 5-15 minutes.

  3. Assist if Necessary:

    • If your cat is in labor for more than six hours without delivering a kitten or shows signs of distress (such as excessive meowing or panting), contact your veterinarian immediately.
    • Do not try to pull out a kitten unless it is clearly stuck and you have been instructed by a vet on how to do so safely.

  4. Care for the Newborn Kittens:

    • Ensure each kitten is breathing properly. If not, gently stimulate them with a soft cloth or towel.
    • Keep the kittens warm and close to their mother.
    • Monitor the kittens’ weight daily to ensure they are gaining weight as expected. Newborn kittens should gain about 10-15% of their body weight each day.

  5. Nourish the Mother Cat:

    • Feed your Sphynx cat a high-quality, nutrient-rich diet to support lactation.
    • Provide plenty of fresh water and consider adding kitten milk replacer to her food if she needs extra calories.

  6. Regular Veterinary Checks:

    • Schedule regular check-ups with your veterinarian for both the mother cat and the kittens. This is crucial for their health and development.
    • Ensure that all kittens receive necessary vaccinations and deworming treatments as per your vet’s advice.

  7. Socialization and Care:

    • Handle the kittens gently to socialize them. This helps in their future bonding with humans.
    • Keep the birthing area clean by changing bedding regularly and removing soiled blankets promptly.

  8. Weaning Process:

    • Start weaning the kittens at around 4 weeks of age by introducing soft, easily chewable food.
    • Gradually reduce the amount of milk they receive from their mother over a period of several weeks until they are fully weaned.

  9. Spaying and Neutering:

    • Consider spaying or neutering your Sphynx cat after she has finished nursing to prevent unwanted pregnancies in the future.
    • Discuss this with your veterinarian to determine the best time for the procedure based on her health and the kittens’ age.

By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth and successful birthing experience for both your Sphynx cat and her newborn kittens.