What causes miscarriage in a cat? - briefly
Miscarriage in cats can result from infections, hormonal imbalances, genetic abnormalities, trauma, or exposure to toxins.
What causes miscarriage in a cat? - in detail
Miscarriage in cats, also known as spontaneous abortion, can occur due to a variety of factors, both intrinsic and extrinsic. One of the primary causes is infection, particularly bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections. Feline panleukopenia virus, feline herpesvirus, and feline leukemia virus are common viral culprits, while bacterial infections such as brucellosis or toxoplasmosis can also lead to pregnancy loss. Hormonal imbalances, such as insufficient progesterone levels, can disrupt the maintenance of pregnancy, resulting in miscarriage. Genetic abnormalities in the developing fetuses may also cause the body to terminate the pregnancy naturally. Trauma or physical injury to the pregnant cat, whether from accidents, falls, or rough handling, can lead to miscarriage. Nutritional deficiencies, particularly a lack of essential vitamins and minerals, can compromise the health of the mother and the developing fetuses, increasing the risk of pregnancy loss. Exposure to toxins, chemicals, or certain medications can be harmful to the pregnancy, as can severe stress or environmental changes that affect the cat’s well-being. Chronic health conditions in the mother, such as diabetes, kidney disease, or thyroid disorders, may also contribute to miscarriage. Additionally, advanced maternal age can increase the likelihood of pregnancy complications, including miscarriage. It is essential to provide a safe, stress-free environment and proper veterinary care during pregnancy to minimize these risks. If a miscarriage occurs, a veterinarian should be consulted to determine the underlying cause and ensure the cat’s health is managed appropriately.