Anything Related To Signs Of Cat Labor

It is necessary to protect your cat from infections and feed her nutritious food. For cat owners, it is also important to be able to recognize the symptoms of labor. If you can recognise the signs of cat labor, then you can give her the best possible care. Generally the gestation period of a cat is about 64 weeks. You will notice the various changes in her body throughout the pregnancy period. Here are a few signs of cat labor that can help you decide if its time for your cat to deliver.

What Are The Signs Of Cat Labor?

Cats generally go into labor around the 64th day of pregnancy, although this need not be the same in all cases. Some of the signs of cat labor are as follows:

Increase In Appetite – You may observe an increase in your cat’s appetite during pregnancy. But as she nears the start of labor, there will be a dramatic reduction in her appetite. In fact, she may even avoid eating altogether.

Nesting – As labor draws closer, she will display nesting behaviour trying to look for secluded, safe and warm places to give birth to her kittens. This is the time for you to provide her with a suitable nesting box lined with soft towels.

Increased Affection – You may find your cat suddenly becoming more loving and wanting to be near you all the time. She may long for more affection from you. It may also happen that your previously affectionate cat may suddenly become withdrawn.

Discharge From the Nipples – A day or so before giving birth, she may have some milky discharge from the nipples.

Behavioural Changes – These include restless pacing, nervousness or excitement, panting and excessive grooming. You may even observe her licking her bottom repeatedly as she prepares for the birth of her kittens. She may also indulge in excessive vocalization calling out to you.

Physical Signs – As labor draws closer, your cat may have a drop in normal body temperature and may even vomit. You may observe the nipples, larger and pinker than usual.

Finally when she begins to feel the twinges of labor, she will appear uneasy and start moving in and out of her nesting box that you have provided. This is an indication that your cat’s labor has begun. She may also experience contractions and a possible discharge of blood or some other colored fluid during her active labor.

What Happens During The Birthing Process?

Several factors such as the size and weight of the uterus and the fetus as well hormonal balances may affect the birth process. As the birth process begins, rhythmic uterine contractions gradually increase and try to push the fetus out of the uterus, into the birth channel. Usually the queen will remove the amniotic sacs containing the kittens. In case she ignores to do so, then you may have to cut the sac and stimulate the kitten’s breathing by rubbing it gently. The cat may also stimulate the kittens to breathe by washing them with her tongue. She will sever the umbilical cord by chewing on it. After this the kittens may latch on to a nipple and begin sucking. It is advisable to have the cat and her kittens examined by a veterinarian within 24 hours of giving birth.