What to do with afterbirth after a cat's birth? - briefly
After a cat gives birth, it is crucial to ensure that all of the afterbirth (placenta) is expelled. If any part remains, it can cause serious health issues for the mother cat, including infection and hemorrhage. Immediately contact your veterinarian if you notice any retained placenta or signs of distress in the mother cat.
What to do with afterbirth after a cat's birth? - in detail
After a cat gives birth, proper handling and disposal of the afterbirth are crucial for the health and well-being of both the mother and her kittens. The afterbirth, also known as the placenta, is the organ that nourished and protected the kittens during gestation. Here's a detailed guide on what to do with the afterbirth:
-
Immediate Care:
- Once the cat has delivered all her kittens, observe for any remaining placentas or membranes. Normally, each kitten should be accompanied by its own placenta.
- Ensure that the mother cat consumes each placenta soon after it is expelled. This natural behavior helps to stimulate contractions, reduce bleeding, and provide essential nutrients to the new mother.
-
Monitoring the Mother:
- Keep a close eye on the mother cat for signs of distress or excessive bleeding. If she appears lethargic, has difficulty breathing, or shows any abnormal symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.
- Check the area where the birth occurred to ensure there are no retained placentas. Retained placenta can lead to infection and other complications.
-
Cleaning the Area:
- After the mother has consumed all the placentas and you have ensured that none are left, clean the birthing area thoroughly with warm water and a mild, unscented soap. Avoid using harsh chemicals or disinfectants that could harm the newborn kittens.
- Dry the area completely to prevent any dampness that might cause discomfort for the mother and her kittens.
-
Disposal of Afterbirth:
- If there are any remaining placentas after the mother has consumed what she can, they should be disposed of carefully. Place them in a sealed plastic bag to prevent odors and potential contamination.
- Dispose of the bag in an outdoor trash bin or follow your local guidelines for biohazard waste disposal. Do not flush placentas down the toilet as this could clog pipes and cause environmental issues.
-
Post-Birth Care:
- Ensure that the mother cat has access to clean water and food. She will need extra nutrition to support her kittens through nursing.
- Monitor the newborn kittens for signs of health and vitality. They should be actively nursing from their mother within the first few hours after birth. If any kitten appears weak or unable to nurse, contact your veterinarian promptly.
By following these steps, you can ensure a safe and healthy post-birth environment for both the mother cat and her newborn kittens.