Typically, a cat's contractions will last for about 24 hours. Before your cat goes into labor, it's crucial to have all the necessary supplies ready. This includes items like scissors, warm water, gloves, and towels. If your cat has a smooth natural delivery, you'll need to assist with cutting the umbilical cord. In cases of dystocia (difficult labor), immediate veterinary attention is essential.
A cat typically gives birth to her first kitten within 24 hours of the onset of contractions. Generally, the mother cat will break the amniotic sac, allowing the kitten to breathe. Following this, the placenta will be delivered, and the mother cat will bite through the umbilical cord and consume the placenta. The placenta is highly nutritious, helping the mother cat replenish nutrients post-delivery. After a brief interval, the mother cat will begin delivering the next kitten.
Key Considerations During Cat Labor
1. When your cat is in labor, try to keep the environment quiet and limit the people present to just the primary caregiver. The caregiver should have essential supplies prepared, such as scissors, warm water, gloves, and towels, to assist if needed during the delivery.
2. It's very important to wear gloves throughout the entire birthing process. It's beneficial to lightly coat the gloves with some of the mother cat's fluids, as this can prevent the transfer of your scent to the newborn kittens. This reduces the chances of the mother cat rejecting her offspring due to unfamiliar smells, which could lead to a denial of nursing or even harm to the kittens.
3. During a normal delivery, the mother cat will naturally tear open the amniotic sac, sever the umbilical cord with her teeth, and lick the fluids off of the newborn. She will then typically eat the placenta. However, if the mother is inexperienced or particularly stressed, she may not do this. In this situation, the caregiver should put on gloves, immediately open the amniotic sac to allow the kitten to breathe, cut the umbilical cord, dry the kitten off with a towel, and then place the kitten with the mother.
4. If the amniotic sac ruptures and amniotic fluid is released, and no kitten is born within 20 to 30 minutes, or if the mother's contractions are weak, ineffective, or if the kitten cannot be delivered, dystocia is usually present. In these cases, you must immediately contact a veterinarian.