What to do if a cat cannot give birth on its own? - briefly
If a cat is unable to give birth on its own, immediate veterinary intervention is crucial. Contact your veterinarian right away for professional assistance and to ensure the safety of both the mother and her kittens.
What to do if a cat cannot give birth on its own? - in detail
If a cat is unable to give birth on her own, it is crucial to seek immediate veterinary assistance as this can be a life-threatening situation for both the mother and her kittens. Here are some steps you can take before the veterinarian arrives:
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Stay Calm: Cats are very perceptive of their owner's emotions, so it is important to remain calm and composed. Panic can exacerbate the situation and make your cat more stressed.
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Monitor for Signs of Distress: Look out for signs that the cat is in distress. These may include excessive meowing or crying, restlessness, panting, or lethargy. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.
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Check the Vaginal Area: Gently examine the vaginal area to see if there are any kittens visible. Be careful not to cause any further distress to the cat. If you see a kitten, note its position and whether it is moving or not.
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Keep the Cat Warm: Ensure that the cat is in a warm environment. You can use heating pads set on low heat or warm blankets to keep her comfortable. Avoid placing the pad directly on the cat's skin; instead, wrap it in a towel.
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Do Not Attempt to Pull Out Kittens: Under no circumstances should you try to pull out the kittens yourself. This can cause serious injury to both the mother and the kittens, including uterine rupture or tearing of the umbilical cord.
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Keep the Cat Hydrated: Offer water frequently, but do not force her to drink if she is unwilling. You can also provide small amounts of food, but avoid giving anything that could cause an upset stomach.
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Prepare for Transport: Have a carrier ready to transport your cat to the veterinarian as soon as possible. Line the bottom of the carrier with a soft towel or blanket for comfort.
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Contact Your Veterinarian: The most important step is to contact your veterinarian immediately. They can provide guidance over the phone and will likely ask you to bring the cat in for an emergency examination and potentially a Caesarean section (C-section).
In cases where the cat has been in labor for more than two hours without delivering any kittens, or if there are signs of distress, urgent veterinary intervention is necessary. The veterinarian will perform a thorough examination to determine the cause of the difficulty and may recommend a C-section if it is deemed necessary to save the lives of the mother and her kittens.
While waiting for the veterinarian, do not hesitate to call back if the cat's condition worsens or if you notice any new symptoms. Staying in close contact with your veterinarian can ensure that both the mother and her kittens receive the best possible care during this critical time.