The kitten doesn’t breathe after birth what to do? - briefly
If a newborn kitten is not breathing immediately after birth, swift action is necessary. Gently rub the kitten's chest with your finger to stimulate breathing. If the kitten does not respond within a minute, perform mouth-to-snout resuscitation by covering the kitten’s nose and gently exhaling into its mouth.
The kitten doesn’t breathe after birth what to do? - in detail
If a newborn kitten is not breathing immediately after birth, prompt action is crucial to ensure its survival. Here are the steps you should take:
-
Clear the Airways: The most common reason for a kitten not breathing immediately after birth is that its airways are blocked with mucus or amniotic fluid. Gently clear the kitten's nose and mouth using a soft cloth or your finger. Be careful not to insert your finger too far into the kitten's mouth, as this could cause further complications.
-
Stimulate Breathing: After clearing the airways, you can try to stimulate the kitten to breathe by gently rubbing its body with a towel or your hands. This mimics the natural stimulation the kitten would receive from its mother licking it clean. You can also hold the kitten upside down for a few seconds, allowing gravity to help drain any remaining fluid from its lungs.
-
Perform Kitten CPR: If the kitten still does not breathe after these initial steps, you may need to perform kitten CPR. Here's how:
- Lay the kitten on its back on a flat surface.
- Place your fingers over the kitten's chest, just behind the elbow.
- Compress the chest gently but firmly, at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.
- After every 30 compressions, give two quick breaths into the kitten's nose using your mouth or a syringe (without the needle).
- Continue this cycle for 15 minutes before stopping to check if the kitten is breathing on its own. If not, continue CPR until help arrives.
-
Keep the Kitten Warm: While performing these steps, it's essential to keep the kitten warm. You can use a heat lamp or a heating pad set on low, wrapped in a towel to prevent burns. This will help maintain the kitten's body temperature and increase its chances of survival.
-
Seek Veterinary Care: Even if the kitten starts breathing on its own, it's crucial to seek veterinary care as soon as possible. The kitten may still have underlying issues that require professional attention. A vet can also provide supportive care, such as fluids and oxygen, to help the kitten recover fully.
-
Monitor for Hypothermia: Newborn kittens are susceptible to hypothermia, which can lead to respiratory distress and other complications. Keep a close eye on the kitten's body temperature, and if it starts to drop, warm the kitten gently using a heat source as described above.
By following these steps, you can significantly improve the chances of a newborn kitten's survival when it is not breathing immediately after birth. Always remember that prompt action and professional veterinary care are essential for the best possible outcome.