Preparation Checklist for Cat Delivery: What You Need B

Part 1: Preparations Before a Cat Gives Birth

1. Prebirth Examination

Before assisting your cat in giving birth, it's advisable to take her to a veterinary clinic for an ultrasound or Xray. This helps determine the number of kittens and their heartbeats, allowing you to closely monitor the birthing process. It ensures that all kittens are born safely and that there are no stillborn kittens left inside.

2. Birthing Supplies

Start preparing the birthing area and tools a few days before the expected delivery date. Choose a clean, comfortable, and quiet space, ideally semienclosed, for the birthing room. You'll need a bowl, scissors, towels, and thread. These are essential for tying and cutting the umbilical cords after the kittens are born.

While normally, the mother cat will bite the umbilical cord herself after giving birth, some cats may not or may be too weak to do so. In such cases, you'll need to wear gloves, tie a knot with a predisinfected thread about 12 centimeters from the kitten's belly button, and then cut the cord with a disinfected pair of scissors. Finally, use a cotton swab dipped in iodine to disinfect the umbilical cord and navel.

3. Keep the Veterinarian's Contact Information Handy

During labor, the environment should be as quiet as possible to ensure a smooth process. Avoid disturbing the mother cat and simply observe. If you notice any abnormalities, provide assistance promptly. However, if the mother cat is experiencing difficulties in giving birth, and there's no progress for a prolonged period, it's crucial to contact a veterinarian immediately. It's recommended to save the veterinarian's contact information in advance and inform them about the potential assistance you might need.

4. Be Aware of the Due Date

The normal gestation period for cats is around 63 days. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the expected due date. If the cat hasn't shown signs of giving birth by 70 days, it's advisable to take the kitten to the hospital for a checkup, as a cat that hasn't given birth by the due date may be at risk of dystocia.

Part 2: Symptoms Before a Cat Gives Birth

Before giving birth, the mother cat's abdomen will appear significantly enlarged and sagging. The breasts and nipples will swell and turn a deep pink color, and there may be milk secretion.

As the due date approaches, the mother cat may become increasingly restless, frequently changing positions in the nesting area, sometimes squatting on the ground, and making whining or meowing sounds. Cats usually prefer to stay in the nesting area, especially in the final hours before giving birth. The mother cat's breathing rate will increase, and the kittens will move frequently inside her body. The mother cat may often look back.

As labor approaches, the vulva will begin to secrete a thick liquid, the uterus starts to contract, and the mother cat will feel discomfort and pain, becoming more nervous. At this point, the owner should be aware that the cat is about to give birth.

What to Do If the Mother Cat Ignores the Kitten?

After giving birth, the mother cat typically cleans the kittens and guides them to nurse. However, some cats may neglect their kittens due to exhaustion or other reasons. If you notice the mother cat ignoring the kittens, immediately clean the kittens' faces of the amniotic fluid, wipe them clean, and stimulate them to make sounds.

If fluid blocks the kitten's nostrils or respiratory tract, wrap the kitten in a thick towel, gently hold it, and tilt the kitten's head downward. Gently shake the kitten to allow the fluid in the respiratory tract to drain, and then dry the kitten's mouth and nose.