What should I do if the placenta hasn't come out after my cat gives birth? - briefly
If your cat has given birth and the placenta has not been expelled, it is crucial to contact your veterinarian immediately. This situation can be indicative of a serious medical condition that requires prompt professional attention.
What should I do if the placenta hasn't come out after my cat gives birth? - in detail
When a cat has given birth, it is essential to monitor her health closely, particularly regarding the expulsion of the placenta. Retained placentas can lead to serious health issues, including infections and toxemia. Here is a detailed guide on what actions to take if the placenta has not been expelled after feline parturition.
Firstly, it is crucial to understand that a cat typically gives birth to a litter of kittens over a period of several hours. Each kitten should be followed by the expulsion of its corresponding placenta. Normally, the placenta is expelled within 10-15 minutes after the birth of each kitten. If a placenta is not expelled within this timeframe, it is considered retained.
The first step is to remain calm and observe the cat. Ensure that she is in a quiet, comfortable, and stress-free environment. Stress can inhibit the natural birthing process. Monitor the cat for any signs of distress, such as excessive panting, restlessness, or refusal to nurse the kittens.
If more than 15 minutes have passed since the birth of the last kitten and the placenta has not been expelled, it is advisable to contact a veterinarian immediately. The veterinarian may recommend bringing the cat in for an examination. During this examination, the vet will assess the cat's condition and may perform an ultrasound or X-ray to determine if there are any retained placentas or other complications.
In some cases, the veterinarian may administer oxytocin, a hormone that stimulates uterine contractions, to help expel the retained placenta. This should only be done under veterinary supervision, as improper use of oxytocin can lead to uterine rupture or other serious complications.
If the retained placenta is not expelled naturally and oxytocin is ineffective, surgical intervention may be necessary. This procedure, known as a hysterectomy, involves the removal of the uterus and is typically performed as a last resort due to the risks associated with surgery.
It is also important to monitor the cat for signs of infection, such as fever, lethargy, or discharge from the vulva. If any of these symptoms are present, seek veterinary care immediately, as infection can quickly become life-threatening.
In summary, if a cat has given birth and the placenta has not been expelled, it is essential to remain calm, observe the cat for signs of distress, and contact a veterinarian promptly. Early intervention can prevent serious health complications and ensure the well-being of both the mother cat and her kittens. Regular veterinary check-ups and a clean, stress-free environment can also contribute to a successful birthing process.