What should I do if my cat doesn't sever the umbilical cord?

What should I do if my cat doesn't sever the umbilical cord? - briefly

If your cat does not sever the umbilical cord within 15 minutes of giving birth, you should contact your veterinarian immediately for assistance. Attempting to intervene without professional guidance can cause harm to both the mother and her kittens.

What should I do if my cat doesn't sever the umbilical cord? - in detail

If your cat does not sever the umbilical cord after giving birth, it is crucial to intervene promptly to prevent potential complications such as infection or hemorrhage. Here are the steps you should follow:

1. Prepare Your Environment:

   • Ensure the birthing area is clean and quiet to minimize stress for both the mother cat and the kittens.
   • Have a pair of sharp, clean scissors ready. You can also use dental floss or sterile thread if necessary.

2. Monitor the Birth Process:

   • Observe the birthing process carefully. Normally, the mother cat should chew through the umbilical cord, ensuring it is completely severed and clean.
   • If the mother cat does not sever the cord within 15-30 minutes after each kitten's birth, you need to step in.

3. Severing the Umbilical Cord:

   • Gently lift the kitten away from the mother cat and locate the umbilical cord connecting the kitten to the placenta.
   • Using the scissors, carefully cut the umbilical cord about 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) from the kitten's body. Ensure you are cutting through both the amniotic sac and the umbilical cord itself.
   • Tie off the end of the cord closest to the kitten using a piece of dental floss or sterile thread, creating a tight knot.
   • Trim the excess cord close to the knot, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) remaining. This helps prevent infection and ensures the cord does not tangle with other kittens or get caught on objects in the environment.

4. Stimulate the Kitten:

   • Once the cord is severed and tied off, gently rub the kitten with a soft cloth to stimulate breathing and encourage it to start moving around.
   • Place the kitten near the mother cat's belly, allowing her to lick and clean the kitten. This helps to promote bonding and keeps the kitten warm.

5. Monitor Mother Cat and Kittens:

   • Keep a close eye on both the mother cat and the newborn kittens for any signs of distress or infection.
   • Ensure the birthing area remains clean, changing bedding as needed to maintain hygiene.

6. Seek Veterinary Care if Necessary:

   • If you notice any abnormalities such as excessive bleeding, difficulty breathing in the kitten, or signs of infection (e.g., pus or foul odor), contact your veterinarian immediately for professional assistance.

By following these steps, you can help ensure the safety and well-being of both the mother cat and her newborn kittens when she is unable to sever the umbilical cord on her own.