Although welcoming new kittens into the world is an emotional and thrilling experience, if you’re not sure what to anticipate, it can also be a little nerve-wracking. It can be easier for you and your cat to give birth if you know how to support your cat while allowing her space. Although most cats are fairly self-sufficient during labor, complications can be avoided by being aware of the warning signs and what to do.
There are a few things you should do in advance when your cat is ready to give birth. It’s imperative that she finds a peaceful, cozy space where she feels safe and secure. Additionally, you should have some basic supplies on hand, such as clean towels and a warm, draft-free space for the kittens.
Even though cats typically get along just fine on their own, it’s still a good idea to monitor the birth process in case something doesn’t seem quite right. For the mother and her kittens to have a healthy delivery, it’s important to know when to intervene or when to contact a veterinarian.
| Feature | Description |
| Preparation | Set up a quiet, warm space for the cat to give birth. Provide clean towels and a comfortable box. |
| Labor signs | Watch for signs like nesting, restlessness, and licking. These show labor is starting soon. |
| First stage | The cat may experience contractions for several hours before the first kitten is born. |
| Delivery | Kittens usually come out every 10-60 minutes. The mother will clean each one after birth. |
| Post-birth care | Make sure all kittens are nursing, and the mother is comfortable. Monitor for any signs of distress. |
How a cat gives birth to kittens?
Cats typically give birth without any problems. It also doesn’t need veterinary or human assistance. But occasionally, you still need to provide a little assistance to your pet. You have an average of 58-72 days to review the relevant material if you are aware that your pet is already harboring kittens. However, this only applies in situations where you are aware of the date of conception (you intentionally knitted or "caught" a stray pet, for instance).
Otherwise, you won’t start speculating about when babies will show up in the house until the third week of pregnancy. However, you will have a little over a month to get ready after that.
"Firstborns" may run frantically around the room, oblivious to their surroundings. Although lying in a box quietly during a contraction is not a painless experience, you still need to attempt to calm the cat. Avoid putting pressure on her stomach or grabbing her in your arms. Allow nature to take its course.
The process starts as soon as the cat sticks out her tongue, her breathing quickens, and she starts to resemble a fugitive dog. This indicates that she feels the urge to urinate or pass gas. Remain calm. Your pet will become anxious and sense it.
Cat labor lasts a different amount of time. Some pets recover in two hours, some require five, and some may endure even longer. You cannot be certain that your pet has finished, even if you know how many kittens a cat can have at one time. One can give birth to four to five children, and another to eight.
Birthing does not occur on a conveyor belt in an animal. With every contraction, it must recuperate. It may also grow weary of this procedure, and the babies’ sizes do matter. Large-fruited kittens may require a longer process to complete. Also, women who give birth to big kittens or whose labor takes several hours are far more likely to experience complications (both during and after childbirth).
How to help a cat give birth?
The feline gave birth to kittens here. It is your responsibility to ensure that each kitten’s pregnancy bubble bursts and is extracted from its body. The infant will suffocate otherwise. As a result, pop the bubble that is directly above the kitten’s nose and use a dry napkin or piece of cloth to wipe its muzzle. Turn the newborn kitten over gently. It will be able to breathe easier thanks to this. Once more, wipe the muzzle to clear any mucus from the nostrils.
Dry clean diapers or sheets must be placed underneath the cat, and they must be changed on a regular basis. You will most likely need scissors if this is the cat’s first time giving birth. Ensure that they are sterile.
However, continue to give the new mother the freedom to chew on the umbilical cord. It’s possible to cut the kitten too close. There are veins and arteries in the umbilical cord. And there’s a chance that serious bleeding will start if you cut them badly. The cat will prevent severe blood loss by using its teeth to crush the vessels while it is gnawing.
The cat might not know what to do if this is its first time giving birth. Thus, use sterile scissors to cut the umbilical cord. Move away from the stomach by about three centimeters. Apply hydrogen peroxide to the umbilical cord stump. Make sure the infants are not crushed by the new mother.
It is best to discard the placenta if it came out with the kitten after carefully separating it. Never give it to the feline. When the next contraction occurs, the baby should come out if there isn’t an afterbirth (this is their place). Make sure the number of them matches the number of kittens that have just been born.
Because of this, it’s crucial to stay close to the cat; however, if she has hidden from you, you shouldn’t approach her and try to help. The appearance of the kittens may take longer if you stand over the "soul" and gaze at her. Both the adult pet and them will suffer from this.
Wipe the kittens as soon as the cat gave birth to them. Place them close to their mother so they can get suckered by her. Keep in mind that they remain blind. It is therefore best to outfit the cat with a roomy cardboard box for her "nest" and to cut a hole in it (not at the bottom, so that the babies cannot get out) so that she can go outside to eat and relieve herself. To ensure there is no draft, you can use multiple little ones that are higher than the cat’s height to allow for ventilation inside the box.
Being a part of your cat’s home birthing process can be a fulfilling and emotional experience. You can make sure that the mother and her kittens have a smooth and safe delivery with the appropriate planning and attention.
It’s critical to establish a calm, cozy area where your cat can feel safe. Keep some basic supplies on hand, such as gloves, clean towels, and a heating pad, in case she needs more help or warmth. Always keep an eye on her, but allow her the room she needs to manage things on her own.
Please do not hesitate to contact your veterinarian if any questions or concerns arise. Recall that sometimes, despite your best efforts, you may need to seek professional assistance in order to maintain the safety and health of your cat and her kittens.
Giving birth to a cat at home can be a simple and natural process, but it’s crucial to be ready and give your pet a peaceful, comfortable space. To keep the mother and her kittens safe and healthy, it’s important to recognize the symptoms of labor, know when to call a veterinarian, and know how to help without getting in the way. Your cat will feel more secure during this delicate time if you have basic supplies on hand and are prepared to provide gentle support.
