What do cats do if kittens are born dead? - briefly
If kittens are born dead, a cat typically attempts to revive them by licking and nudging, but will eventually leave them if they remain unresponsive. In some cases, the mother may eat the deceased kitten as a natural response to prevent infection or attract predators away from the living offspring.
What do cats do if kittens are born dead? - in detail
If a cat gives birth and one or more of her kittens are stillborn, she will typically exhibit several behaviors in response to this tragic event.
Firstly, it is important to note that cats are instinctually driven creatures with a strong maternal instinct. When a kitten is born dead, the mother cat will often attempt to revive it through licking and nudging, similar to how she would clean and stimulate a live newborn. This behavior can last for some time as the cat tries to rouse her offspring, even if the kitten shows no signs of life.
If her efforts prove futile, the mother cat may exhibit signs of distress such as meowing excessively or pacing around the nest. Some cats may also display a loss of appetite, indicating that they are emotionally affected by the loss. It is not uncommon for cats to grieve over their stillborn kittens, and this emotional response can be quite profound.
In some cases, the mother cat might attempt to bury or hide the stillborn kitten, especially if she feels it is a threat to her remaining offspring. This behavior is rooted in her natural instinct to protect her surviving kittens from potential predators or disease. She may also try to clean and remove any signs of the deceased kitten from the nest area to maintain a sanitary environment for her living young.
It is crucial for owners to monitor their cat's behavior closely during and after the birthing process. If a stillborn kitten is discovered, it should be removed gently and respectfully to prevent any potential health risks to the mother and surviving kittens. Additionally, providing comfort and support to the mother cat can help alleviate some of her distress and facilitate her recovery from the ordeal.
In summary, when a cat encounters stillborn kittens, she will instinctively try to revive them, may display signs of grief, attempt to hide or bury the deceased, and prioritize the well-being of any surviving offspring. Understanding these behaviors can help owners provide better care and support for their cats during this challenging time.