Understanding Cat Labor
Cats are great at giving birth, but sometimes they need a little help. It's good to know what to expect.
Signs Your Cat is in Labor
About two days before birth, your cat’s mammary glands will get bigger and she might produce milk.
Stage 1 - Early Labor
This begins about 12 hours before the first kitten comes. Your cat may have a lower temperature and eat less. She might get restless and look for a nesting spot. You might see her purring, meowing, panting, licking her genitals, or even vomiting.
Stage 2 - Active Labor
Your cat will likely be in her nesting box. She may refuse to come out, rearrange her nest, and her attitude will change. Loud or busy places can delay her delivery, so keep her in a quiet space.
Signs of Imminent Birth
- Contractions: You'll see or feel them as they get stronger.
- Placental Plug: She'll expel this to protect against infections.
- Water Bubble: Precedes the kitten's arrival.
- Stronger Contractions: These are closer together, and your cat may pant or cry.
Labor Duration
Contractions usually occur every 2-3 minutes. A kitten should be born within 30 minutes to an hour of strong contractions. Kitten births can be 15 to 30 minutes apart. Rest periods between births are normal and can take hours.
What Happens During Birth?
The kitten arrives attached to a placenta and wrapped in membranes, which the mother breaks by licking. Track placenta deliveries, as retained ones can cause infection. The mother eats the placenta, which is healthy for her.
Helping with the Birth
- Tools: Clock, clean cloths, small box, warm bedding, gloves, scissors (if needed).
- Steps: Use clean tools to assist, and monitor placenta delivery.
When to Call a Vet
- Prolonged contractions over 1 hour.
- Foul-smelling discharge.
- Discomfort post-birth indicating a problem.
Post-Birth Care
Offer the mother food and water nearby, and check on the kittens. If she settles well with her babies, leave them to bond and change bedding the next day. Regularly check for rare post-birth complications and call your vet if necessary.
Caring for Newborns
- Check kittens’ suckling, especially in long-haired cats.
- Weigh kittens daily to ensure proper weight gain.
- Monitor the mother for signs of distress or discomfort.
Important Notes
- Weaning usually begins at 4 to 6 weeks.
- Female cats can come into heat while nursing.
- Worm kittens at 6 to 8 weeks.
- Wait until they are 8 to 12 weeks old before relocating kittens.