How To Help A Cat Give Birth

Helping your pregnant cat give birth at home – Royal Canin

Using this easy advice, you can ensure that your pregnant cat has a stress-free delivery and that you are prepared to help her during the process. When you’re expecting a litter of kittens, it’s critical that you feel prepared and confident when the big day arrives. If you decide to have a home birth, there are a few easy but critical things you can do to ensure that your cat is happy, healthy, and capable of giving birth in a stress-free setting before the big day arrives. Preparing your house in anticipation of your cat giving birth At the conclusion of her pregnancy, your pregnant cat should be permitted to have a room or place all to herself.

The environment should be very warm (about 72°F) in order to make her feel comfortable and limit the danger of hypothermia, and it should have 65-70 percent humidity in order to be effective.

The box may be made out of cardboard and should be large enough for her to lie down in while having high edges so that the kittens don’t tumble out.

The nesting box should be kept at a higher temperature than the rest of the room in order to assist the kittens through their most vulnerable period, which is the first few days of life.

Identifying the signs that your cat is about to give birth Because there are no visible contractions during the earliest stages of your cat’s labor, you may miss the beginning stages of your cat’s labor.
She’ll also be a lot of fun to be around, and she’ll over-groom herself a lot.
Normally, it takes less than an hour after the initial crimson discharge is noticed before the first kittens and their placentas begin to emerge from the mother’s body.
A kitten should be seen every 10 to 60 minutes, and it’s possible that your cat will devour the placentas and gnaw through the umbilical cords of the kittens.
Cats are quite capable of caring for themselves during pregnancy, so try not to stress over her; checking on her every 15 minutes is completely OK.
An unhealthy newborn kitten’s indicators of health Once the kittens are born, they should immediately crawl toward their mother and begin sucking on her; kitten milk should be kept on standby in case any do not.
Keep the room quiet and warm, and keep the door closed—15-20 percent of cats who are new moms go into heat within a few days of giving birth, and they will wander off to locate a partner, which can leave the kittens susceptible to predators.

If you’re not sure whether or not you’ve done everything correctly, consult with your veterinarian, who will be able to provide you with guidance.

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How You Can Help a Mother Cat During Birth

If you have a pregnant cat (queen) that appears to be ready to give birth to her kittens (queening), it is likely that you will not need to do anything other than encourage her to continue her pregnancy. It’s possible that you’ll wake up one morning to find that your cat has given birth during the night and is feeding her babies in peace. Despite the fact that nature has a way of taking care of itself, you should be aware of potential difficulties and what you might need to do to assist.

Signs of Impending Labor

Cat pregnancies last around 60 days, plus or minus five days, depending on the breed. If you’re not sure how far along your cat is in her pregnancy, take a look at the symptoms that she’s about to give birth.

When your cat is pregnant, she will look for a peaceful and safe area to give birth to her babies a day or two before she goes into labor. She may select a hiding location that you have prepared for her, or she may seek refuge in the back of a closet or beneath a bed. Increased pacing, panting, excessive grooming (particularly in the area of her genitals), and vocalization are all signs that your cat is suffering from a medical condition. She will also refrain from eating. In labor, your cat’s rectal body temperature might drop to almost 100 degrees Fahrenheit, and it may vomit as a result of the stress of the situation. A few days before delivery, you may notice the abdomen “dive,” and the cat’s nipples may get bigger, darker or pinker. Labor Signs in the Activated State: During contractions, which are the uterine motions that propel the kitten down the delivery canal, it’s possible that your cat will yowl in discomfort. Additionally, you may notice a discharge of blood or other fluids.

Supplies for the Birthing

It’s possible that your cat will wish to conceal in order to give birth. You can, however, prepare a birthing place, such as a cardboard box or laundry basket lined with towels or blankets, in advance of the delivery. If the cat chooses this location to give birth, it will be much easier for you to monitor and attend to the newborn.

Obtain absorbent pads to line the delivery area and place them around the room. The following items are required: clean cloths or paper towels to clean the area and, if necessary, encourage the kittens
Nesting box: If you have taken your pregnant cat to the vet and you know how many kittens to expect, you should purchase a nesting box that will accommodate the entire brood. The usual litter size is four kittens, however a cat can have anywhere from one to twelve kittens in a single litter. A box of 16 inches by 24 inches should be sufficient for an 8-pound cat of typical size. The size of the cat’s box will be proportional to its weight. Heating pad: Place a heating pad in the bottom of the box and cover it with a blanket or several towels to keep the kittens from becoming chilly. Never put the kittens directly on a heating pad since this might cause them to burn. A clean towel should be draped over the top of the box if it does not have a cover to keep the heat in and draught out. If you are expecting a large number of soiled towels following the birth of your child, have a laundry basket, plastic bag, or additional box ready for them to be thrown away
Tie the umbilical cord with dental floss and cut it with clean scissors if the mother cat does not rip it away.

The Kitten Birthing Process

There is no known trigger for the birthing process; however, elements that may influence it include the size and weight of the uterus, the size and weight of the fetuses, and the hormonal balances of both the fetuses and the queen. In the course of the delivery process, rhythmical uterine contractions gradually increase in intensity as the fetus is pushed out of the uterus and into the birth canal. It might take anything from 5 to 30 minutes to give birth to a single kitten. The kittens are born within their amniotic sacs, which will be removed by the queen once they are born.

The umbilical cord will also be severed by her by nibbling on it at a distance of around one inch from the kitten’s body.
The kittens will quickly move for a nipple, latch on to it, and begin to suckle there.
For kittens born to mothers who have trouble chewing the umbilical cord, securely wrap dental floss around the umbilical chord 1 inch from the kitten’s body and cut the umbilical cord on the mother’s side of the tie.
Each kitten should have a placenta of its own.
If the placenta stays in the cat, you will need to take it to a veterinarian for evaluation.
If there is a delay of more than two hours and you are certain that there are still kittens, the queen should be examined by a veterinarian immediately.

If the delivery went successfully or not, the mother cat and kittens should be evaluated by your veterinarian within 24 hours after childbirth, regardless of how they were born.

Length of Time for the Total Birth Process

In order for a queen to give birth to all of her kittens, she must give birth for around half a day on average. When active labor begins, the first kitten should come within an hour of the beginning of active labor. The mother cat will rest in between kittens and should be allowed to nurse and clean the kittens that have been born during this time. If you’ve been keeping the kittens in a separate box, bring them back with the mother cat and assist them in finding a nipple to nurse on. When she is not in the process of giving birth, it is a good time to provide her with food, kitten milk replacement, or plain, unflavored yogurt.

If you have reason to believe that the mother has not given birth to all of the kittens, take the queen and her kittens to the veterinarian.

Problems During Labor

Fortunately, most queens are capable of giving birth to their offspring without the assistance of humans. Some difficulties, on the other hand, may arise.

Contractions that last more than 30 minutes without progress: If your cat is having intense contractions for more than 30 minutes without making any progress, take it and any kittens to your veterinarian. The presence of a retained placenta in your cat might result in a uterine infection if it does not pass each of the placentas. You must count each and every placenta, even if the queen consumes one of them. The number of placentas should be the same as the number of kittens
Otherwise, In the birth canal is a kitten that has been lodged: The majority of kittens are born with their heads first. Breech births (tail-first deliveries) occur around 40% of the time and are deemed normal by medical professionals. For more than 10 minutes, a kitten that has been stuck in the birth canal is most certainly in discomfort. If a kitten has been stuck in the birth canal for more than two minutes, call your veterinarian
Your veterinarian will advise you on what to do next. Even though it is rare, one to two kittens are born stillborn per year in the United States. Remove the deceased kitten from the location so that the mother may proceed with the delivery of the remaining kittens without interruption. Despite the fact that some bleeding is typical after giving birth, severe bleeding or hemorrhage is a medical emergency that need emergency veterinary treatment. If the mother cat is not cared for, she may die. Seek veterinarian treatment if the frequent bleeding persists for more than a week after delivery, or if the bleeding pauses for a day and then resumes again.

Immediately after birth, your queen should be responsible for caring for and feeding them all. Your cat’s calorie requirements treble when she is breastfeeding. Make certain that it has an enough supply of kitten formula food. A high-quality kitten formula will match the nutritional requirements of your cat’s high-energy lifestyle. If your cat is not nursing or eating, appears to be in discomfort, or appears to be sluggish, there is something wrong. Another symptom of an infection or retained kitten is a bad odor, which is accompanied by recurrent bleeding.

If you have any reason to believe your pet is unwell, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Birth and kittening

Is your cat on the verge of giving birth? You might be apprehensive about the thought of your cat going into labor – as well as the prospect of ensuring that the kittens are delivered safely. Cats give birth on their own and are private animals, so keep an eye on them softly from a distance in case you need to intervene or call the veterinarian. More information on how to birth kittens may be found in the video shown below.

How to help your cat during birth

Before your cat gives birth, consult with your veterinarian to determine whether or not your cat will require any special assistance or treatments during pregnancy and delivery. The key to being a successful midwife to your cat is to observe and time events correctly. To avoid disturbing your cat or making her uneasy, it is essential to keep a safe space between you and your cat. Your cat may be able to give birth without the need for your assistance, but it’s crucial to understand her needs, as well as the needs of her kittens, in case you are necessary to assist her.

Prepare clean towels, a warm water bottle, a feeding bottle or syringe, and some specialised alternative cat milk replacement – not cow or goat milk – in advance of the arrival of your pet.

The process of birth is sometimes referred to as kittening or parturition.

The interval between kittens being born is normally between 10 and 60 minutes, and phases two and three are repeated. The delivery is normally completed within six hours of the start of the second stage, although it might take as long as 12 hours in certain cases to complete.

First stage of kittening

The initial stage of kittening can take up to 36 hours, however it is generally shorter for queens that have already given birth to kittens. What you may anticipate is the following:

Constant contractions with little straining will occur
The queen will be restless and will return to her bed on a regular basis. Towards the end of the first stage, the queen may scratch her bedding and pant. Vaginal discharge is quite unusual.

Second stage of kittening

Each kitten will spend between five and thirty minutes in the second stage of kittening. What you may anticipate is the following:

Constriction is more intense
The foetal membranes (water bag) emerges momentarily at the vulva and then bursts. Once the liquid has been drained away, active straining begins, and the kitten usually emerges head first
Once the kitten’s head is out, one or two strains from the cat should be enough to push the kitten out
The kitten is licked by the mother, who then breaks the bag and chews the cord to free the kitten. This helps to clean the kitten and encourages it to take in more air.

Third stage of kittening

The passing of the membranes and the formation of the black meat mass of the placenta or afterbirth constitute the third stage of kittening. What you may anticipate is the following:

This normally occurs shortly after the birth of the kittens, however occasionally two kittens are delivered, followed by two sets of membranes
Attempt to count the number of placentae to verify that one is passed for every kitten. Please contact your veterinarian for guidance if they have not all gone within four or six hours. Keep in mind that the queen will normally devour the placenta in order to conceal signs of the birth and protect her offspring
A reddish-brown vaginal discharge may be seen for up to three weeks following the birth of the kittens. Although a tiny quantity of greenish discharge may routinely be present after the kitten or the placenta, it is considered abnormal if it is green or foul-smelling
Yet,

What can go wrong during birth?

The majority of cats are capable of delivering their litter of kittens on their own. The most effective strategy is to observe quietly and discreetly from a safe distance. Your cat, on the other hand, may have a difficult delivery, and there are certain things you can do to make it easier:

If a kitten is partially out, but the mother is extremely tired and the kitten does not pass within a few seconds, you can gently try to pull them out by pulling downwards very gently with clean hands, but you should consult your veterinarian first
If the mother does not clean the kitten, you can quickly and quietly clear the membranes from their head with clean, soft kitchen roll
If the To clear their nasal passages, they should wipe their nose and open their mouth. In order to get the kitten to breathe, rub them in little circular movements. If the mother does not bite through the cord, you can knot it off twice with clean sewing thread approximately 3cm from the kitten’s body and gently rip between the two ties. Clean hands are essential
If the mother is avoiding the kittens, provide warmth in the form of a warm, well-covered water bottle
If you have had to assist in any way, it is best to seek veterinary advice as the kittens may be more at risk of infection or being mismothered – that is, being injured, rejected, and not suckled or kept warm by the queen

When to call the vet

If any of the following situations occur during childbirth, you should contact your veterinarian for advice:

There is no sign of straining for more than 24 hours
The cat has been straining for more than 30 minutes without producing anything – this could indicate an obstruction (for example, a very large kitten)
The kitten has arrived, but no further kittens appear after an hour
The cat suddenly appears weak
There is excessive bloody discharge or greenish discharge without a kitten
The cat suddenly appears weak. However, there may be a greenish discharge after the kitten or with the afterbirth
A cat may become stuck halfway out and cannot be delivered by gently tugging
And a kitten may become trapped halfway out and cannot be delivered by gently pulling.

In some situations, it may be necessary to deliver the kittens by a caesarean section.

Cat Labour & Giving Birth – What You Need To Know

You shouldn’t be concerned because pregnant cats are normally more than capable of caring for themselves, but they will still require constant supervision and attention from you during the labor and delivery process. Because ladies frequently attempt to conceal their pregnancy in order to give birth in solitude, you’ll need to keep a careful check on them during the final few weeks just in case! If you have any questions or concerns regarding pregnancy in cats, or if you are concerned about your cat giving birth, you should consult your veterinarian.

Listed below are some helpful hints from our PetCare Team to ensure that you’re as prepared as possible for when your cat becomes a new mother.

Preparing for the birth

As your cat nears the end of her pregnancy, make sure everyone else in the family understands that they should be calm and quiet around her, and that they should touch her with caution – especially youngsters, who are naturally enthusiastic about the idea of having kittens to play with soon! Attempt to keep her as peaceful and inactive as possible at this time, and urge her to relax on her special maternity bed to help her relax even more. Even the coziest, softest bed may not be enough to entice her, and some cats would choose a corner of a closet to your proposed birthing bed!

Have help on hand

However, it is beneficial to have someone present to keep your cat calm and to assist her in the event that she has any issues during the birthing process. Make a note of your veterinarian’s after-hours phone number before your cat gives birth, as delivery typically occurs during the night, and they may require an emergency helping hand if the situation arises. If your mother has difficulties giving birth to her kittens, you may need to bring her to the veterinarian, so make sure you have access to transportation.

These include a clean bowl of warm water, clean towels and cloths, dental floss, and disposable gloves, as well as a cat carrier and the contact information for your veterinarian’s office.

Keeping the kittens warm will be necessary if you need to remove them from their mother at any point during the day. We recommend that you use a microwaveable beanie bag instead of a hot water bottle since the sharp teeth and claws of a hot water bottle can pierce your skin.

Know what signs to look out for

It might be difficult to recognize the signs of impending labor. During the early stages of labor, the mother (queen) will become extremely restless, pacing around as if she is hunting for something, and becoming quite loud. If you are unclear whether or not labor has begun, consult with your veterinarian, and keep a careful check on your cat during her last weeks and days of pregnancy to ensure that you know when and where she will give birth to her kittens.

How to help a cat give birth

Finding out that your favorite pet is pregnant is a joyous but often stressful moment – especially if the news comes as a complete surprise. Anxiety can arise in even the most seasoned cat owner when their cat is about to go into labor for the first time. Furthermore, they’re concerned about whether they’ll be able to deliver their beloved babies in a secure manner. Despite the fact that cats frequently give birth without our assistance, it is still crucial to be as informed as possible about the process in case they require assistance.

It doesn’t matter if you have a pedigree puss or a wonderful moggy; one of the most important things you can do for your pet is to invest in insurance for pets.

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How to tell if your cat is pregnant

“How do I know if my cat is pregnant?” you might wonder if you have a female cat who has not been spayed. “How do I know if my cat is pregnant?” you might wonder if you have a female cat who has not been spayed. While you may not be aware of it at first, there are some tell-tale indicators that you may look out for after a few weeks.

The appearance of red/pink, swollen nipples is generally visible within the first two to three weeks of pregnancy. Pregnancy-related increases in appetite, particularly during the third trimester Belly that is rounded and bulging
A woman’s nesting behavior begins around two to three weeks before she gives birth. The cessation of mating cries
Vomiting or lethargy are rather frequent, although they might occur at any point in time.

If you have a suspicion that she is pregnant, it is critical that you take her to your veterinarian for a check-up to confirm it. The veterinarian will be able to check for any difficulties and will be able to provide you with guidance on what to expect.

At home preparations

Take her to your veterinarian for a check-up if you have any doubts about whether she is pregnant or not. It will be possible for the veterinarian to check for any difficulties and to provide you with information about what to expect.

Keep a track of her due date

Hopefully, your veterinarian has provided you with an accurate estimate of her due date. Cat gestation lasts around 65 days on average, but keeping track of the days will make it simpler to detect difficulties later on in the pregnancy.

Feeding, worming, vaccinations and flea treatment

It is estimated that a pregnant cat would have significantly changed dietary requirements by the time she reaches her third trimester (about 42 days into the pregnancy). It may be necessary to transfer her from adult cat food to kitten food in order to ensure that she is receiving the right quantity of food and nutrients for her age. Kitten food has more calories per gram of food consumed than adult diet. When her womb presses on her stomach, this makes it perfect for keeping her well-fed throughout this time.

It is important to ensure that your female cat is current on her vaccines, since she will convey immunity to her kittens through the milk she produces.

In addition, kittens can readily get worms and fleas from their mother, making it even more critical to follow up with these treatments on a regular basis.

Prepare a birthing box/nest

Your cat will require a warm, peaceful, and safe environment in which to give birth, and as the due date near, she will most likely begin looking for one. Prepare a birthing box for her well in advance of the day on which she is due to give her a hand. A variety of disposable, self-assembling boxes are available for purchase. Alternatively, you may construct one out of a huge cardboard box. The most crucial thing to remember is that it must be:

Comfortable, comfortable, and in a quiet room with a temperature of around 22°C
It should be large enough for your cat to stand, stretch, and turn around in comfortably. Take into consideration that there will also need to be space for the kittens. The interior is lined with a soft, absorbent sleeping fabric. Towels, sheets, soft blankets, and newspapers that are a little worn but still clean are all useful. If it does not have a top, it should be covered with a blanket. To keep the warmth in and maintain solitude
High-sided to keep those inquisitive kittens contained within the house
The location should be close to food, freshwater, and her litter box – but not too close

Get supplies

In addition, you should keep extra goods on hand in case of an emergency. The following items might be included in a checklist:

Cat carrier in case you need to take your cat to the veterinarian in an emergency
The delivery area will be lined with absorbent pads. If required, clean cloths will be used to assist in cleaning the environment and the kittens. For the bottom of the box, there is a heating pad. The use of this method can help keep kittens from being chilly. Never put a kitten directly on a heating pad since this might cause them to burn. A lamp that emits infrared light to keep young kittens warm
Bin for garbage and laundry basket Labor and delivery may be a dirty process, so make a place for any abandoned towels once the baby is born. Dental floss and a pair of clean scissors are recommended. To ensure that the umbilical chord is not chewed away by the mother cat, you will need to tie the cord off with dental floss and then cut it. Cat milk powder is a powder made from the milk of cats. If there is an issue with the kittens being nursed, you may need to intervene to help. Cow or goat milk is not a suitable alternative for this product. Keep a kitten feeding bottle or syringe on hand in case they require feeding

Enter vet’s details into your phone

Keep your veterinarian’s phone number available in case you want assistance or guidance. Pet insurance subscribers also get access to the Purely Pets 24-Hour Vet Helpline, which is available around the clock. Our veterinary specialists are here to answer any questions you may have about cats.

A guide to the three stages of birthing

When your cat is giving birth, it’s critical that you keep them calm and provide them with lots of space. Most cats will give birth on their own, but it’s a good idea to keep an eye on them in case something goes wrong. Try not to make a big deal about her. It is entirely OK to check in every 15 minutes. If you stress her enough, she may interrupt her labor and cause the birth to be delayed for several hours or even days! The process of giving birth may be separated into three main stages. The second and third stages are repeated for each kitten in the group.

Stage 1: Preparation for birth

In this stage, your cat’s delivery canal will relax and broaden, allowing for the positioning of her kittens to be as natural as possible. According to the Cats Protection organization, this period might continue up to 36 hours in duration. In this period, you will observe a variety of changes in your cat’s behavior, including:

Making frequent visits to the birthing box and hiding away
Becoming restless and more talkative
Becoming restless and more vocal Excessive grooming (particularly around her rear end)
Excessive use of make-up. Pacing and panting are evident. Consuming less calories
She’s passing a little bit of reddish-brown mucus from her vulva right now. It is imperative that you contact your veterinarian promptly if she is vomiting blood
Else, something may be wrong.

Approximately one month before your cat gives birth to her kittens, she is likely to begin calming down. Be prepared not to be disappointed when your nicely prepared birthing package is not chosen by her.

Stage 2: Giving birth

The contractions will become harder and the straining will become more intense once your cat reaches the second stage and begins to give birth. The amniotic sac will emerge momentarily at the vulva before bursting, which will be the first symptom you’ll notice during your pregnancy. Kittens are normally delivered head first (although they can sometimes be born tail first), and it should only take one or two more pushes from the cat for the kitten to be born fully developed and healthy. The first kitten is usually delivered within 30 minutes of the straining process beginning.

A small amniotic sac surrounds each kitten during its birth, which your cat should rip apart and remove as soon as it is born.

All of this helps to clean the kitten and encourages it to take a breath.

It’s possible that the kitten may immediately seek out the mother cat’s nipples and begin eating on them. Some kittens will be delivered immediately, while others will take a few minutes or the mother will not allow them to eat until all kittens are born.

Stage 3: Passing the placenta

Your cat will also pass a black fleshy lump known as the placenta for each kitten it gives birth to (afterbirth). Each placenta will emerge around 15 minutes following the birth of each cat. However, it is vital to keep track of how many placentas are passed because they do not always arrive in exact sequence one after another. If you suspect that one has been placed inside your cat, call your veterinarian right away. In the event that it is not removed, it may constitute a health danger. Keep in mind that mother cats are known to consume the placenta.

Care following birthing

Birthing is a physically demanding procedure for a mother cat, and she is likely to be hungry, exhausted, and in desperate need of a good night’s sleep after giving birth. In order to avoid being disturbed, ensure that the surrounding area is maintained calm and peaceful. The process of bonding with her babies is a critical component of the procedure. It is possible that she will reject them if she feels worried or uncomfortable with them. In most cases, a mother cat’s vaginal discharge will disappear within a few weeks of giving birth to her kittens.

Problems to look out for during birthing

The vast majority of the time, childbirth takes place without any complications. If you detect any of the following symptoms, you should contact your veterinarian:

Despite the fact that some blood may be visible during and after delivery, excessive bleeding is abnormal and should be addressed by your veterinarian as soon as it is discovered. If you detect a greenish discharge but no kitten, it’s possible that a kitten is in danger and requires your assistance. Exhaustion– If your cat is forced to give birth for an extended period of time, she may grow fatigued and stop pushing, placing her and her babies in danger. If your cat has been struggling for 20-30 minutes without producing a kitten, you should contact your veterinarian immediately. Kitten trapped in the birthing canal– Large kittens or kittens in a problematic posture may become entangled in the birthing canal. Consult with your veterinarian as soon as possible. If the kitten becomes stuck halfway out, a gentle pull may be necessary
If this does not work, contact the veterinarian. Not removing the amniotic sac by the mother cat– If the mother cat does not remove the amniotic sac, make a small hole in the sac and remove it yourself. If the sac remains around the kitten’s face for an extended period of time, they will be unable to breathe. Obstacles in umbilical cord removal– Once again, moms may require assistance in removing the umbilical cords of their kittens. This does not have to be done immediately, but if it is kept attached for an extended period of time, it might cause complications. If your cat hasn’t exhibited any indications of going into labor a few days after you anticipated her to, it’s possible that she isn’t pregnant. Similarly, if a kitten has come but no more kittens have appeared after an hour, call the veterinarian. Stillborn kittens– It is not uncommon for one or two kittens to be stillborn at the time of conception. Make certain that they are truly deceased before removing them. A limp kitten can be brought back to life by stroking them vigorously with a warm, moist face towel. It’s also possible to experiment with elevating and lowering a kitten’s legs while blowing into their face and mouth.

Protect your precious pets with Purely Pets

Although Pet Insurance is unlikely to provide coverage for pregnancy-related illnesses, Purely Pets can provide your kitty with the protection they need at a price that is affordable for you. If your pet is injured or becomes unwell, or if both happen, vet bills can be covered for anywhere between £1,000 and £15,000, depending on the amount of coverage you pick. With 15 different levels of lifetime insurance to choose from, you can choose a coverage that meets your needs and fits your budget.

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The information provided within this article was correct at the time of publication, but it may have since been updated or modified.

Helping a pregnant cat give birth — Cattitude Adjustment

Despite the fact that pet insurance is unlikely to provide coverage for pregnancy-related issues, Purely Pets can provide your feline with the protection they deserve at a price that is affordable for you. It is possible to get veterinary fees covered for accidents, illness, or both for a fee ranging from £1,000 to £15,000 depending on the level of coverage you select. Choosing from 15 different levels of lifetime insurance ensures that your needs are met regardless of your budget. If you have any questions, you can call our 24-hour Vet Helpline, use our online policy management portal at a time that is convenient for you, or speak with our insurance team for assistance.

Underwriting criteria apply to all insurance policies, and the benefits, features, and discounts that are offered may differ from one insurance scheme or cover to the next. This article contains accurate information at the time of publication, but it is subject to change at any time without notice.

Pregnant Cat Care Tips

We typically suggest that all pet cats be spayed or neutered, but we also want to make certain that, if your cat becomes pregnant, she receives the finest possible care. If you feel your cat is pregnant, here are some pointers on how to care for her during her pregnancy.

How to Tell if Your Cat is Pregnant

In the event that you’re unsure whether or not your unspayed cat is pregnant, there are a number of signs that might indicate that kittens are on the way.

Physical changes: A pregnant cat may experience spells of “morning sickness,” and she will normally consume more food as the pregnancy advances. Additionally, at around five weeks, your cat’s tummy will get considerably larger, and it will continue to enlarge until she gives birth. Additionally, her nipples may become swollen and/or dark red in color, and she may have other symptoms. If your cat was previously affectionate and welcoming, you may notice that she is now hiding or that a formerly disinterested cat has suddenly become a hug bug
Both of these sorts of changes in behavior are common during pregnancy.

What to Feed Your Pregnant Cat

If you discover indicators that your cat may be pregnant and your veterinarian confirms this, you will need to talk to your veterinarian about the nutritional requirements for your pregnant cat. Your cat will want more nutrients – and more of them – now that she is feeding for two (or three, or four, or five.) people at a time. Your veterinarian may recommend that you move your cat back to kitten food, which will assist her and her babies by providing them with nutritional advantages as well.

However, as the kittens increase in size, there will be less capacity in her stomach, so give her smaller quantities more frequently throughout the day to accommodate them.

In the event that your cat has pre-existing medical needs or a sensitive stomach, always consult your veterinarian before making any modifications to her diet and/or feeding schedule.

Taking Care of Your Pregnant Cat

You will want to keep your cat active during her pregnancy in order to guarantee that she is in good health when the time comes to give birth. However, avoid engaging in any extremely boisterous behavior near the conclusion of your cat’s pregnancy. You will need to assist her in remaining calm as she approaches her due date, since anything that is too physically demanding may cause her tension. Make sure to pay close attention to her appetite and comfort level during the pregnancy. If your cat loses interest in her food, or if she appears disturbed or anxious, this might indicate that she is experiencing complications with her pregnancy.

Preparing for Your Cat to Give Birth

Provide your cat with a box or “nest” a few weeks before her due date so that she may give birth and care for her newborn kittens. You should make sure that this birthing box is not only spacious enough for your cat and her litter to be comfortable in, but it is also tall enough to prevent any curious kittens from escaping! Placing it in a warm location with soft blankets or towels (that you won’t mind tossing away) will help to keep it from freezing. Attempt to locate a familiar area to put the box that is both quiet and out of the way, and make sure your cat understands where the box is.

Regular Veterinary Checkups for Pregnant Cats

Your cat’s veterinarian staff will assist you in determining the most appropriate checkup plan for your cat throughout her pregnancy. Furthermore, you’ll be able to collaborate on preparations for the big day. In order to prepare for an at-home delivery, you will need to understand what is “normal,” and you will want to be prepared to securely bring your cat to the office if necessary during labor.

It’s also important to know the name, address, and phone number of the nearest pet emergency clinic in case something happens to your pet outside of usual veterinarian office hours.

What to Do When Your Cat Goes into Labor

Because your cat is domesticated, she may not have all of the instincts of a “wild” cat; yet, most cats give birth without the need for any human assistance. In fact, when your cat is about to give birth, she may actively seek out isolation to avoid being disturbed. While giving birth, the majority of cats would like to be left alone, and they would especially dislike being petted or otherwise touched. Allowing your pregnant cat the most privacy possible while still allowing you to observe the delivery process for symptoms of difficulties or suffering is the best course-of-action to take.

Do not be concerned if this occurs, as you will be able to shift the kittens to the box you prepared after they are born.

What to Do After Your Cat Gives Birth

After your cat has given birth to her kittens, you should take both the mother and her kittens to the veterinarian for a post-natal checkup within 24-48 hours of the birth. If your cat became pregnant by mistake, the post-natal visit is an excellent opportunity to consider getting your cat spayed in order to avoid any further unexpected litters. In the event that you have any more concerns concerning pregnancy care for cats, please do not hesitate to contact us!

Cat labour – a guide to your cat giving birth

Cats, on the other hand, seem to have less issues than dogs when it comes to giving birth to their young. However, it is still vital to observe them closely since complications might occur, especially in flat-faced types such as Persians. If you detect any of the following symptoms, you should contact your veterinarian:

Green discharge

In the event that you notice a green discharge coming from your cat’s vulva, this might indicate the presence of a kitten that is suffering (their blood and oxygen supply is falling).

Bleeding

It’s completely normal to see some blood when your cat is kittening, but anything more than a few drops is odd and should be checked up by your veterinarian as soon as you notice it.

Exhaustion

If your cat’s labor continues for an extended period of time, she may grow fatigued and cease to exert herself.

Straining but no kittens

Contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. If your cat has been straining for 20-30 minutes without producing a kitten, it is possible that there is a clog in the reproductive system.

Kitten stuck

Kittens that are too large or malformed might become trapped in the pelvis. Sometimes they just make it halfway, and other times they don’t even make it that far at all. If your cat has a kitten lodged within her, call your veterinarian immediately for guidance. Do not attempt to remove the kitten yourself.

Sac problems

Some first-time mothers require assistance in removing the sac from their kittens’ tummies. Allow your cat an opportunity to remove the sac on their own by placing the kitten in front of them, but if they don’t act, cut a small hole in the sac and remove it yourself.

If the sac remains around the kittens’ faces for an extended period of time, they will be unable to breathe. If you’re not sure how to go about it, call your veterinarian right away for guidance and assistance.

Umbilical cord problems

First-time kitten moms may require assistance in removing the umbilical cords from their offspring. Umbilical cords may not have to be removed immediately, but if they are left connected for an extended period of time, they might create complications and damage. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on how to knot umbilical cords.

No kittens

If your cat hasn’t exhibited any indications of going into labor a few days after you anticipated her to, you should consult your veterinarian immediately.

Stillborn kittens

If any of your cat’s kittens are born dead, you should have them checked out.

Poorly mother

Make an appointment with your veterinarian if your cat appears to be ill or just “not herself” before, during, or after kittening.

Breeding and Queening Cats

The process of breeding cats and rearing kittens may be a really fulfilling experience, or it can be highly frustrating and result in failure. Providing you with the following information will help to boost your chances of success while also making the experience more fun and safe.

How often does a female cat come into heat?

Throughout the year, the female cat orqueen goes into ‘heat’ orestrus several times. Each heat wave lasts for several days on average. Without being bred, she will go into heat in one to three weeks if left alone. During the reproductive season, cats are seasonally polyestrous, which means that they go through many estrus or heat cycles. “In the Northern Hemisphere, female cats cycle from January or February to the late fall.” Cats’ mating season varies depending on their geographic location and environmental elements such as the amount of daylight hours and the temperature of the environment.

Cats who live in more tropical climates, closer to the equator, or who spend the most of their time indoors can cycle all year.

What are the signs of estrus?

It is unusual to see vaginal bleeding from a cat in heat, but it does happen. The most noticeable indicators of estrus in cats are those that manifest themselves in their behavior. The majority of cats become extremely loving, if not demanding; they repeatedly brush against people or items such as furniture, rubbing against their owners and furniture, and continually seeking attention from their owners and furnishings. They are rolling about on the floor. Whenever they are stroked along their backs or spines, they raise their rear quarters into the air and walk with their back feet.

Owners frequently find these shifts in behavior irritating, and in some cases, they believe their cat is suffering from a strange ailment.

Tomcats that have never been seen in the yard or neighborhood before will come, and they may attempt to enter the house in order to mate with the female in the household.

What should I do to be sure that breeding is successful?

Breeding cats differs from breeding dogs in several ways. As a result of the fact that cats are induced ovulators, the female can be bred at any moment throughout the active phase of her heat cycle. This indicates that the act of reproducing increases the release of eggs from the ovaries. As a result, eggs are only released from the ovaries after the sperm have been placed in the reproductive tract of the female. For most female cats, three to four matings during a 24-hour period are required in order to assure that ovulation happens.

To summarize, it has been demonstrated that 35-60 percent of cats in a colony may ovulate on their own. Following the occurrence of ovulation, the female cat will go into heat within a day or two following the occurrence.

What should I expect during pregnancy?

The duration of pregnancy orgestation spans from 64 to 71 days, with the majority of cats giving birth to kittens or queens between days 63 and 65. It is necessary to record the breeding date(s) in order to be able to forecast the delivery date. In most cases, a veterinarian check performed three to four weeks after the breeding will confirm her pregnancy. It is not necessary to provide calcium, vitamin, or mineral supplements to a pregnant cat who is given a quality brand of kitten food. A premium brand of growth and development diet (kitten food) should be supplied to a pregnant cat throughout the course of the pregnancy as well as for a month after the kittens are weaned from the mother.

Mother and litter diets offer all of the additional nourishment required by the mother and her offspring.

Food consumption by the mother increases by 50% during pregnancy, compared to her pre-pregnancy level of consumption.

It is possible that you may need to increase the number of feedings each day in order to ensure that she is eating enough to suit her requirements as well as the needs of the kittens.

What should I do to prepare for the kittens’ birth?

Many queens exhibit behavioral changes following a successful breeding cycle. During pregnancy, most women have an especially sweet and caring demeanor, and they seek more care and attention from their partners. It is common for pregnant mothers to begin looking for a secure site to deliver their babies during the final stages of their pregnancy. In preparation for this time, a queening or birthing box should be chosen and placed in a quiet location, such as a closet or a dark corner of the house.

The bottom of the box should be lined with several layers of newspapers or other disposable absorbent material, which will serve as a private hiding place for the expectant mother and can be easily removed and disposed of after they have absorbed the birthing fluids.

What happens during a normal labor and delivery?

Nervousness, excessive grooming, and panting are all common indicators of approaching delivery; the queen may also cease eating during the final day of her pregnancy at some point. An increase in rectal temperature below 100°F (37.5°C) happens in the majority of instances during the past 24 hours and signifies the onset of labor in most cases. 24 to 48 hours before labor begins, milk will frequently begin to emerge in the mammary glands. Cats who are expecting a kitten will want to be alone throughout the delivery process.

If these initial kittens are born promptly and without complications, it is possible that no more attention will be required; nonetheless, it is preferable to be there in case of an emergency.
The delivery of the kittens will take place over a period of time that will vary.
It is fairly uncommon for Persians to take an hour or more to relax between each kitten they raise.
It is generally recommended that if labor does not restart within a few hours following the delivery of the first kittens, the mother be examined by a veterinarian.
Veterinary aid should be sought immediately.
It is known as an abreech presentation because the kitten’s hind legs are stretched forward (in the direction of his or her head) while the tail and bottom are shown first.
If all goes according to plan, the kitten will be born after a few contractions are felt.
Following birth, the mother should use her tongue to break apart the sac, exposing the kitten’s mouth and nose, which she will then lick clean of any fluids or placental tissues that have accumulated.
Grooming also helps to dry the kitten’s coat after it has been born.

Following each delivery, the remains of the placenta is normally removed from the uterus by the body. There have been instances where the queen has delivered many kittens before expelling the afterbirths. She will almost always consume these tissues.

How can I tell if something is wrong?

If a kitten or a fluid-filled bubble is emerging from the vaginal opening but has not been born within a few minutes, you should intervene to aid the birth process. It is possible to shatter the bubble using dampened gauze or a thin washcloth, and then grab the head or feet with it. When the next contraction begins, pull softly but firmly in a downward direction until the contraction is complete (i.e., out and down toward her rear feet). If you are unable to readily remove the kitten from the nest, or if the queen screams uncontrollably throughout the operation, the kitten is most likely stuck.

“If the kitten does not get out of the sac within a few minutes after being born, he or she will suffocate.” When a female gives birth, it is usual for her to remove the placental sac and clean the kittens; however, first-time moms may be confused by the process and reluctant to do so.
The kitten’s face should be washed with a moist towel or cotton to remove the sac from the kitten’s nose and mouth, allowing it to breathe more easily.
The umbilical cord should be secured with cord (e.g., sewing thread or dental floss) and cut with clean scissors once it has been removed.
A scratchy sounds when breathing will indicate that your kitten has aspirated fluid into its lungs, which you will notice if you have a newborn kitten.

To begin, place the kitten in the palm of one hand and keep it there. While holding the kitten’s head between your first two fingers with one hand, its body should be held firmly on your palm with the other
After that, perform a quick downward motion with your hands, which should cause the cat to gasp for air. In order for the fluid and mucus to move out of the lungs, gravity must be used. This procedure can be done as many times as necessary until the lungs sound clean. When it comes to success, the color of the tongue is a trustworthy sign. If the kitten is receiving enough oxygen, it will become pink to crimson in appearance. An abnormally blue tongue suggests that the lungs are not getting enough oxygen, and that the swinging operation should be repeated until the problem is resolved. When doing this technique, exercise extreme caution. It is important not to swing the kittens too hard or you may accidently throw the cat out of your hands.

It is also beneficial to have a bulb syringe on hand to aid in the suctioning of fluid or mucus from the throat.

Should I leave the newborn kittens with the queen while she continues to give birth?

For the newborn kittens, it may be beneficial to have a little box lined with a warm towel available. In a microwave oven, a slightly moist towel may be quickly re-heated. After each kitten has been stabilized and dried, it should be placed in the incubator box while the mother finishes delivering the remaining kittens to the world. Heating pads or hot water bottles wrapped in towels should be placed in the box, and a heat lamp should also be placed nearby to provide additional warmth if necessary.

When utilizing a heat lamp, caution should be given since newborn kittens may not be able to move away from the heat source as quickly as they should.

What should I do when she finishes delivering her kittens?

If you have finished delivering your newspapers, take them from the queening box as soon as you are finished. Before the kittens return, the box should be well cleaned and lined with soft bedding. The mother should be accepting of the kittens and should be able to roll over on her side to nurse them. It is recommended that you have your veterinarian evaluate the mother and her brood within twenty-four hours after the delivery. This inspection is being conducted to confirm that no kittens have been left behind and to establish whether or not milk production is satisfactory.

There will be bloody flow from the mother’s vaginal area for several days following delivery. If it persists for more than a week, your veterinarian should check her because she may be having postpartum issues like as a retained placenta, which requires medical attention.

What happens if my cat has trouble delivering her kittens?

The majority of cats give birth without the aid of a human, however issues sometimes emerge that necessitate the intervention of a skilled veterinary team. If any of the following situations occur, get urgent assistance:

After twenty minutes of heavy labor, there is no sign of a cat. During the vaginal opening process, a fluid-filled bubble becomes evident. The mother suffers from a sudden bout of sadness or extreme fatigue. The mother’s rectal temperature surpasses 103 degrees Fahrenheit (39.4 degrees Celsius)
During this time, you notice a new bloody flow from the vaginal area that lasts longer than 10 minutes.

After twenty minutes of heavy labor, there is no sign of a kitten; During the vaginal opening process, a fluid-filled bubble is evident. The mother suffers from a sudden bout of sadness or extreme fatigue; 103oF (39.4oC) or higher is the mother’s rectal temperature. During this time, you notice a new bloody flow from the vaginal area that lasts longer than 10 minutes;

Is premature birth common in cats?

On rare occasions, a mother will give birth to a litter before the expected time. The kittens may be tiny and skinny, with little or no fur on their bodies. Despite the fact that they are capable of surviving with a great deal of care, the majority of preterm kittens perish despite of your best efforts. To assist you in attempting to preserve preterm kittens, your veterinarian can offer you with precise and thorough advice, which may include how to feed kittens that are unable to nurse on their own.

What happens if a kitten is stillborn?

Premature births of a litter are not uncommon among mothers. Small, skinny, and with little or no fur, the kittens may appear to be abandoned. Most preterm kittens die despite of your best efforts, even though it is possible for them to live with an immense amount of care. To assist you in attempting to preserve preterm kittens, your veterinarian can offer you with precise and thorough instructions, which may include how to feed kittens that are unable to nurse on their own.

​Helping your pregnant cat give birth at home – Royal Canin