Introduction
Understanding the signs of labor in cats is crucial for ensuring a safe and stress-free delivery. This article explores pre-labor behaviors, physical indicators, and best practices for assisting during kitten birth, helping cat owners prepare for this critical phase of feline pregnancy.
Pre-Labor Behaviors in Cats
Nesting Instinct
Cats typically exhibit nesting behavior 24-48 hours before labor, seeking quiet, secluded spots for delivery. They may scratch, dig, or circle a chosen area to create a comfortable space for their kittens. Providing a nesting box with soft bedding in advance encourages a safe and accessible birthing environment.
Behavioral Changes
Restlessness, pacing, frequent vocalization (meowing or growling), and excessive grooming are common pre-labor signs. Cats may lose their appetite, become more clingy or withdrawn, and frequently lick their genital area as contractions approach.
Physical Indicators of Impending Labor
Drop in Body Temperature
A cat's normal body temperature ranges from 100.5degF to 102.5degF. 24 hours before labor, it drops below 100degF. Monitoring this with a rectal thermometer can help predict the onset of labor.
Swollen Teats and Milk Production
Enlarged, pink teats often begin producing milk 1-2 days prior to birth. You may notice small milk droplets when gently squeezing the nipples.
Vaginal Discharge and Contractions
Clear or mucus-like vaginal discharge and visible abdominal contractions indicate active labor. These signs signal the expulsion of kittens is imminent.
What to Do When Labor Begins
Stay Calm and Observe
Avoid unnecessary interference. Most cats will deliver without assistance. Remain nearby to monitor progress while allowing the mother privacy.
Prepare a Safe Space
Ensure the nesting box is warm, quiet, and free from drafts. Keep blankets, clean towels, and a heating pad (set on low) nearby to keep kittens warm if needed.
Contacting a Veterinarian
Have your vet's emergency number ready. Call if labor lasts more than 2 hours without kittens being born, if green-black discharge appears before birth, or if the mother shows distress or lethargy.
The Delivery Process: What to Expect
Stages of Labor
First Stage: Restlessness and contractions as the cervix dilates (lasts several hours).
Second Stage: Active pushing and delivery of kittens (each kitten typically arrives 30-60 minutes apart).
Third Stage: Passing of placentas after each kitten (a mother cat usually eats these, but ensure each is accounted for).
Assisting Safely
If a kitten remains in the amniotic sac after birth, gently tear the sac open and clear its nose and mouth with your fingers. If the umbilical cord isn't severed, tie it with clean thread 1 inch from the kitten's belly and cut between the knot and the placenta.
Post-Delivery Care
Monitor the mother's health, ensuring she eats, drinks, and nurses the kittens. Keep the nesting area clean and dry. Schedule a veterinary checkup within 2-3 days to confirm all kittens are healthy and the mother has no complications.
Warning Signs and Complications
Contact a vet immediately if:
- Straining continues for over 30 minutes without delivering a kitten.
- There's foul-smelling discharge or signs of infection.
- The mother neglects or harms the kittens.
- A kitten is stillborn or weak and unresponsive.
Conclusion
Recognizing labor readiness in cats empowers owners to provide timely support while minimizing risks. By understanding nesting behaviors, physical cues, and safe delivery practices, you'll contribute to a positive birthing experience for both the queen and her kittens.