What to do if our cat is giving birth? - briefly
If your cat is giving birth, ensure she has a quiet, comfortable space away from noise and other pets. Monitor her progress, but avoid intervening unless there are signs of distress or complications, such as prolonged labor or abnormal discharge.
What to do if our cat is giving birth? - in detail
If your cat is giving birth, it's essential to be prepared and know what steps to take to ensure both the mother and kittens are healthy and safe. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to do:
Firstly, monitor your cat closely as she approaches her due date. On average, cats have a gestation period of about 64 days, but this can vary. Signs that labor is approaching include nesting behavior—such as digging or pawing at bedding—and increased restlessness or vocalization.
When you notice your cat starting to give birth, ensure she has a quiet, safe space where she feels comfortable and secure. Provide her with a clean, warm, and soft bedding area, ideally in a secluded place away from other pets and children.
During the birthing process, it’s crucial to let nature take its course. Cats are instinctively equipped to handle labor, so try not to intervene unless absolutely necessary. However, you can be present to observe and ensure everything is going smoothly. If at any point your cat seems distressed or if more than two hours pass without a kitten being born, contact your veterinarian immediately for advice.
Here’s what to look out for during each stage of labor:
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First Stage: The first stage involves contractions that help the mother cat dilate her cervix and push the kittens through the birth canal. This stage can last from 30 minutes to several hours. During this time, your cat may pace, pant, or groom herself excessively.
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Second Stage: This is the active pushing phase where each kitten is delivered. Kittens are usually born headfirst and should arrive every 15-60 minutes apart. If more than two hours pass between births, contact your vet. Each kitten should be followed by a discharge of membranes or fluids; if not, it could indicate that the mother hasn’t expelled the placenta for that kitten.
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Third Stage: This stage involves the delivery of the placentas. After each kitten is born, the mother cat should lick and clean it to stimulate breathing and remove any membranes. She will also chew through the umbilical cord, which is normal. Ensure that all placentas are expelled; if not, contact your vet as retained placentas can cause infection.
While observing, keep these additional tips in mind:
- Do not interrupt the mother: Let her clean and care for her kittens. This process helps establish bonding and ensures the kittens are stimulated to breathe.
- Monitor the kittens: Ensure each kitten is breathing well and that there are no signs of distress, such as blue gums or lack of movement.
- Keep records: Note the time each kitten is born and any unusual events during the birthing process. This information can be valuable if you need to consult a vet.
- Provide warmth: If necessary, provide additional heat sources like heating pads set on low, but ensure the mother has access to cooler areas to prevent overheating.
After the birth, make sure your cat and her kittens have plenty of food and water. The mother will need extra calories to produce milk, so offer her high-quality, nutrient-rich food. Ensure the kittens are nursing properly and gaining weight; if not, consult your vet.
Overall, while it’s essential to be present and observant during your cat’s labor, trust her instincts and intervene only if necessary. If you notice any signs of distress or complications, do not hesitate to contact your veterinarian for professional guidance.