What to do if the cat has given birth? - briefly
If your cat has given birth, ensure she and her kittens are in a quiet, warm environment. Monitor their health closely for any signs of distress or illness, and contact your veterinarian if necessary.
What to do if the cat has given birth? - in detail
If your cat has given birth, it is essential to ensure both the mother and her kittens are healthy and well-cared for during this critical period. Here is a comprehensive guide on what to do:
Before the Birth: Prepare a quiet, warm, and comfortable space for your cat to give birth. This area should be free from drafts and other pets. Provide clean bedding such as towels or blankets for the kittens to nest in. Ensure you have a list of emergency numbers for your vet, just in case complications arise.
During the Birth: Allow your cat to labor naturally unless there are signs of distress. Normal labor can last from 12 to 36 hours. Kittens usually arrive in intervals of about 45 minutes to 2 hours. If more than two hours pass without a kitten being born, or if you notice excessive bleeding, straining for over an hour with no progress, or the mother cat becomes lethargic, contact your vet immediately.
After Each Kitten is Born: Ensure each kitten is breathing and moving. If not, gently clear their airways using a soft cloth or cotton swab. Encourage the mother to lick her kittens clean; this stimulates their breathing and helps with bonding. Count the number of kittens to ensure none are missing.
Umbilical Cord Care: The umbilical cord should be cut about 1 inch from the body using clean scissors or a sharp, sterile object. Tie a piece of clean thread tightly around the cord to prevent bleeding. Do not pull on the cord; let the mother cat sever it naturally.
Monitoring the Mother and Kittens: Keep a close eye on the mother for signs of illness or infection, such as fever, lethargy, or discharge from her vagina. Ensure she is eating and drinking enough to produce milk for her kittens. If she seems reluctant to nurse, consult your vet.
Feeding and Hydration: Newborn kittens need to feed frequently—every 1-2 hours initially. Weigh the kittens daily to ensure they are gaining weight. If any kitten fails to gain weight or appears weak, contact your vet right away. Keep a bowl of fresh water nearby for the mother but avoid giving her too much at once to prevent her milk from letting down.
Cleanliness: Maintain a clean environment to prevent infections. Change bedding regularly and ensure the area is free from drafts.
When to Call the Vet: Contact your vet if:
- Labor lasts more than 36 hours.
- The mother cat has a fever or appears ill.
- There is excessive bleeding or discharge.
- A kitten is not breathing or moving after birth.
- A kitten fails to gain weight or appears weak.
- The mother cat refuses to nurse her kittens.
By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth and healthy birthing process for your cat and her newborn kittens.