Knowing the signs a cat is in labor is important for many female cat owners. Whether this is your first experience or you have been through the process of cat pregnancy before, understanding what to expect can make all the difference for a safe and smooth delivery for everyone involved. By understanding the key signs of labor in cats, such as restlessness, nesting behaviors, loss of appetite, and temperature drop, owners can better prepare for the arrival of kittens. This article will discuss both pre-labor and active labor signs, explore when veterinary intervention is necessary, and offer tips on how to care for your cat and her soon-to-arrive kittens.
Feline pregnancy
Knowing the natural progression of feline pregnancy can help you identify when your cat is ready to give birth. A cat’s pregnancy typically lasts about 64 to 66 days from the time of mating but variations do occur based on the individual and number of kittens.
To learn more about how pregnancy occurs, you can read our article on the feline heat cycle.
As your cat’s pregnancy progresses, you may notice behavioral and physical changes—these are the precursors to the impending birth, or queening.
Early signs that your cat is in labor
As your cat's pregnancy reaches its final stages, there are specific indicators that labor is about to begin. These signs may appear 24 to 48 hours before labor begins and may last for up to 24 hours.
Here are the signs you may notice revealing that your cat is about to give birth:
Nesting Behavior: Your cat will seek out a quiet, secluded place to give birth. This nesting area may be a box, a corner, or a closet. Make sure to prepare a safe and comfortable nest for your cat in advance. Nesting behavior usually occurs 1 week prior to delivery in cats.
Mammary enlargement: Mammary (breast) development and enlargement occur quite rapidly in the days leading up to labor as they fill with milk for the kittens. The nipples will appear larger and pinker than usual.
Restlessness and Pacing: Your cat may appear increasingly anxious, pacing around the house or frequently changing resting spots. Overgrooming is also common at this stage. This restlessness is a clear indication that labor is imminent.
Decrease in appetite: As labor approaches, your cat may lose her appetite which is a normal sign.
Temperature Drop: A significant decrease in body temperature is a key sign that labor is about to commence. You may wish to monitor your cat's body temperature if you know the signs to look for. A temperature drop of 1 degree Celsius usually suggests labor is about to start (usually to about 37.5°C/99.5°F or less).
Recognizing these pre-labor signs can help you prepare for the exciting time ahead and ensure you're ready to assist or seek veterinary help if needed. If you think your cat is showing these symptoms, consult your vet immediately to confirm that labor is approaching and to receive any specific advice tailored to your pet's condition.
Active signs a cat is in labor
During active labor, the first kitten is typically born within 60 minutes and typically lasts anywhere from 6 to 24 hours. If a queen is in labor for more than 2 hours without delivering a kitten, it may require veterinary attention.
Once delivery begins, kittens are generally born every 30–60 minutes, but it's possible for them to be delivered more rapidly. In a survey involving pregnant cats, the majority of cases showed that the time between the delivery of the first and last kitten was less than 6 hours.
Keep an eye out for these signs that your cat is actively in labor:
- Strong and frequent contractions: Visible contractions of the uterus are a clear sign that your cat is in active labor. These contractions are seen in the abdominal area and are generally strong and frequent.
- Straining and visible effort: Your cat will noticeably strain and appear to be pushing. Minutes without producing a kitten after significant straining could indicate a problem, warranting immediate veterinary intervention.
- Appearance of the first kitten: The first kitten is usually born head first but hindend first is also normal for cats. Kittens are usually delivered in the amniotic sac that the mother cat will usually break. Following the kitten's birth, the mother will clean it and may also eat the placenta, which is a normal part of feline birth.
- Vaginal discharge: A small amount of clear to bloody discharge is common during labor. However, excessive or foul-smelling discharge should be reported to your vet immediately.
Knowing when to intervene or let nature take its course can be stressful. That's why it's essential to know the signs of active labor and have your vet's contact information readily available. If you notice your cat experiencing difficulty giving birth, strong contractions without kitten delivery, or any other concerns, call your vet immediately for guidance.
Supportive care for your cat is about to give birth
Realizing your cat is about to give birth can be both exhilarating and nerve-wracking. Being prepared and knowing how to provide supportive care can make this experience as smooth as possible for both you and your cat.
Create a calm and warm environment: Dim the lights and reduce noise levels to make your cat comfortable. Provide her with soft bedding in the nesting area you've prepared. The birthing location for the queen should provide a warm environment for the neonatal kittens, with temperatures ranging from 27 to 32 degrees Celsius (80-90°F).
Monitor, don't meddle: It's tempting to step in, but often the best thing you can do is observe. Cats prefer to give birth with minimal human intervention, so give your cat the space she needs.
Have supplies ready: Keep clean towels, scissors sterilized for cutting umbilical cords, and other essential supplies nearby. Also, ensure you have your vet's contact information on hand.
Encourage latching: After each kitten is born, make sure it finds its way to a nipple for its first feed. This helps stimulate breathing and is a crucial part of early kitten care.
Know when to contact your vet: If you notice any signs of difficulty giving birth, such as strong contractions without the birth of a kitten, contact your vet immediately. Look for any physical birth defects or abnormalities that might require immediate attention.
Post-birth care: Once the labor and delivery are complete, consult your vet for a postnatal check-up. This is a good time to ask about pregnancy and lactation nutrition for your cat and her new litter of kittens.
Recognizing the signs a cat is in labor is a vital skill for any cat owner or breeder. From understanding the stages of pregnancy to identifying pre-labor and active labor signs, being well-prepared can make all the difference. As exciting as it is to welcome a new litter of kittens, it's essential to remain vigilant and know when to seek veterinary guidance.
Whether you're caring for a pregnant cat for the first time or have previous experience, staying educated on the process can help ensure everything goes smoothly for both the mother cat and her kittens. If you ever have questions or encounter issues, don't hesitate to contact your veterinarian immediately.