What to do if the cat has not given birth to kittens? - briefly
If your cat is overdue and hasn't given birth, it's crucial to seek veterinary care immediately. A delay can lead to serious health risks for both the mother and her unborn kittens.
What to do if the cat has not given birth to kittens? - in detail
If your cat has not given birth to her kittens, it is essential to take immediate and appropriate action to ensure the health and safety of both the mother and her unborn offspring. Here are the steps you should follow:
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Stay Calm: It is crucial for you to remain calm throughout this process. Cats can sense when their human companions are anxious, which may exacerbate the situation.
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Monitor Temperature and Behavior: Check your cat's temperature using a rectal thermometer. A normal body temperature for cats is between 100°F to 102.5°F (37.8°C to 39.2°C). If her temperature drops below 100°F (37.8°C), this could indicate a serious problem, such as hypothermia or infection. Also, observe her behavior for any signs of distress, such as excessive meowing, restlessness, or loss of appetite.
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Contact Your Veterinarian: Immediately call your veterinarian and explain the situation. They can provide guidance tailored to your cat's specific needs and may recommend bringing her in for a check-up.
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Provide Comfort and Support: Make sure your cat is in a quiet, warm environment where she feels safe and secure. You can place a heating pad on low heat under a blanket where she can lie down. Ensure she has easy access to food and water, as well as a clean litter box.
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Monitor Contractions: If you notice your cat having contractions but no kittens are being delivered, this could indicate a problem such as dystocia (difficulty giving birth). Keep track of the frequency and duration of these contractions and report them to your veterinarian.
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Do Not Intervene: Unless explicitly instructed by your vet, do not attempt to assist in the delivery process yourself. Improper intervention can cause more harm than good and may lead to complications for both the mother and her kittens.
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Prepare for Emergency Care: Have a plan in place for getting your cat to the veterinarian quickly if necessary. This might involve having someone available to drive you or knowing the location of the nearest emergency vet clinic.
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Follow Veterinary Advice: If your vet recommends bringing your cat in, do so promptly. They may need to perform an ultrasound or other diagnostic procedures to assess the situation and determine the best course of action. In some cases, a Cesarean section (C-section) might be necessary to safely deliver the kittens.
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Post-Delivery Care: After the birth, whether natural or via C-section, ensure that your cat has adequate rest and nourishment. Monitor her for any signs of infection or complications, and follow up with your veterinarian as advised.
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Educate Yourself: Familiarize yourself with the normal birthing process in cats to better understand what is typical and when intervention may be necessary. This knowledge can help you provide the best support for your cat during this critical time.
By taking these steps, you can help ensure that both your cat and her kittens receive the care they need during this crucial period.