Content

• Steps
• Method 1 of 3: Behavioral Signs of Labor in a Cat
• Method 2 of 3: Examining your cat
• Method 3 of 3: Recognizing the Signs of a Problematic Birth

A domestic cat bears offspring for about 63 days. But if you do not know the exact date of fertilization, then you will not imagine when the cat should give birth. Paying attention to certain physical and behavioral signs of an impending birth can help you take care of the animal in time and understand if everything is going without complications.

Steps

Method 1 of 3: Behavioral Signs of Labor in a Cat

1. 1 Watch to see if the cat is looking for a secluded place (nest). In the last days of pregnancy, the cat will look for a nest or a suitable place for giving birth and caring for kittens. Many cats who are about to give birth prefer to retire, for example in a closet or in their favorite secluded place. If you notice that your pregnant cat is exploring these areas, you can put a blanket or towels there to make it more comfortable.
   • You yourself can make a "nest" for a cat, for example, in a cardboard box. Keep in mind that many cats will certainly want to choose their own secluded place and may even change it at the last moment.
2. 2 Watch for changes in your cat's behavior. As the time for labor approaches, the cat may become restless and often wander around the apartment. You may also notice that her habitual behavior has changed. For example, if your cat is usually indifferent to human companionship, she may become more affectionate by birth (or vice versa).
3. 3 Note if the cat is not eating. Pregnant cats usually eat more. Moreover, when labor is approaching, they may lose their appetite or even stop eating altogether.
4. 4 Pay attention if the cat begins to actively lick under the tail. When labor begins, certain physiological changes are triggered that the cat will begin to feel. In particular, you may notice that she has begun to lick the genital area. This may be accompanied by mucous discharge, which is a sign of impending labor.

Method 2 of 3: Examining your cat

1. 1 Measure your cat's body temperature. If you start checking your cat's body temperature from about 60 days of fertilization, then you will have a very reliable sign of impending labor. Even if you do not know the exact mating date, it will be helpful to regularly measure the body temperature of a cat that is already in a long gestation period.
   • The rectal temperature of a pregnant cat ranges from 37 to 38 ° C.
   • Two hours before delivery, rectal temperature usually drops by a couple of degrees.
2. 2 Monitor your cat's physical condition. When a pregnant cat's due date approaches, her nipples and mammary glands enlarge. The cat may also begin to lick the nipples. Other physical signs of impending labor include a drooping abdomen and an enlarged and soft vulva. All these signs are easy to see on visual inspection.
3. 3 Pay attention to how the cat is breathing. If you suspect that labor is imminent and your cat is letting you move closer, listen carefully to her breathing. Your cat's breathing may become rapid and may even become short of breath. The cat may also begin to purr rhythmically and lingeringly.
4. 4 See if your stomach feels tight to the touch. When labor is just around the corner, the cat will start having contractions. You can find out by gently feeling her belly. Tightness in the abdomen is most likely a sign of a contraction that has begun. You can even see your cat's belly tighten and relax. During this time, the cat may lie on its side, and it will be easier for you to examine it.

Method 3 of 3: Recognizing the Signs of a Problematic Birth

1. 1 If labor is delaying, call your veterinarian. Most cats give birth safely on their own. But it's always worth looking after your cat during labor. If for all the signs (for example, you see contractions) your cat is in the active stage of labor, but nothing happens within an hour, call the veterinarian immediately. The doctor can determine how much help your cat needs.
2. 2 Monitor your cat closely if its temperature rises. By checking your cat's body temperature, you can not only be aware of an impending birth, but also potential problems. Typically, a cat's body temperature drops towards childbirth. If the opposite happens and your cat's body temperature rises, monitor her closely and measure the temperature a second time as soon as possible. If it is still above normal, call your veterinarian.
3. 3 See if there is any suspicious discharge. During childbirth, a small amount of blood may be released. Among the secretions of a giving birth cat will also be a mucous plug and amniotic fluid. However, if you notice heavy bleeding or foul-smelling discharge, contact your doctor as these signs may indicate a problem.
4. 4 Pay attention if the cat is clearly in pain. During childbirth, the cat will feel discomfort and her behavior will talk about it, so it is difficult to immediately tell if she is okay. Most cats go through labor easily on their own.But if the cat bites its genitals, meows sharply and licks them, it is better to call the veterinarian to rule out possible problems.
5. 5 Watch for signs of behaviors that indicate labor problems. When labor approaches, cats begin to behave strangely. If the cat is clearly depressed and sleeps all the time, this could be a sign of a problem. Call your veterinarian, describe your cat's behavior, and get instructions from the doctor on what to do next.