What should I do after my cat gives birth? - briefly
After your cat gives birth, it's essential to provide her with a quiet, warm environment and ensure she has enough food and water to support both her nursing and recovery. Additionally, monitor the kittens for signs of distress or illness, and consult your vet if necessary.
What should I do after my cat gives birth? - in detail
After your cat gives birth, it's crucial to ensure both her and the kittens' well-being. Here are some detailed steps to follow:
Firstly, monitor the birthing process closely. Normally, cats give birth to one or two kittens every 10-60 minutes. If more than four hours pass between deliveries, or if your cat appears distressed, seek veterinary assistance immediately.
Once all the kittens are born, ensure they are breathing properly and not covered in any mucus or debris. If necessary, clear their airways gently using a soft cloth or cotton swab. The mother cat should lick each kitten to stimulate breathing and clean them. If she doesn't, you may need to assist with this process.
Next, observe the mother cat for any signs of postpartum complications such as fever, lethargy, or excessive bleeding. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian promptly. Additionally, ensure she has access to plenty of fresh water and a high-quality diet to support her milk production and recovery.
For the kittens, maintain a warm environment using heating pads set on low or blankets. Ensure they are not too hot by touching them regularly; they should feel warm but not hot. The ideal temperature is around 85-90°F (29-32°C) for newborns.
Keep the kittens close to their mother so they can nurse frequently, which is essential for their growth and immunity. However, monitor their nursing sessions to ensure each kitten gets a fair share of milk. If one or more kittens are not feeding well, you may need to supplement them with a commercial kitten milk replacement formula. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on this.
Regularly weigh the kittens to track their growth. A healthy newborn kitten should gain around 10-15% of its body weight each day. If a kitten is not gaining weight properly, it might require additional care or supplemental feeding.
Lastly, maintain a clean environment for both the mother and her kittens. Change bedding frequently to prevent the spread of infections. Also, minimize disturbances to allow the cat and kittens to bond and rest peacefully.
By following these steps, you can provide optimal care for your cat and her newborn kittens, ensuring their health and well-being during this critical period.