In most cases, cats living with their owners give birth at home, and not in a veterinary clinic, since specialist intervention and the use of special drugs are required only in extreme cases. In order not to worry and avoid mistakes, pet owners should find out exactly how the birth will take place.
How a cat prepares for childbirth
About a week before giving birth, the cat begins to look for a suitable place where she can comfortably settle down. It is not difficult to determine this stage: the animal restlessly walks around the apartment, from time to time it meows plaintively, climbs into the closets, tries to climb into the most secluded corners and settle there. The task of the owners is to provide by this time a comfortable "delivery room", i.e. Make a box of nappies and soft rags large enough for the cat to lie down and stretch out. More often sit your pet in this box, then iron, speak, using gentle intonations. It is very important that the "delivery room" is located in a calm, quiet place without drafts. Remember that the animal must feel completely safe.
A few days before giving birth, the cat's activity decreases, and the appetite increases. Make sure that your pet always has fresh water and food. Place the bowls close to the box so your cat doesn't have to go far.
When there are only a few hours left before delivery, the pregnant animal will begin to show anxiety. The cat, most likely, will rush around the apartment, often fit into a box or other place chosen for her childbirth, meow plaintively, and fondle the owner. It is very important at this time to be next to her, to comfort her, to stroke her, to talk to her affectionately. Remember, the excitement of the owners is transmitted to the cat. Be calm and confident.
How kittens are born
In the end, the cat will settle down in the place she has chosen, and labor will begin. First, you will notice contractions: the animal will shudder, "waves" will begin to pass through its body. In addition, at this stage, the cat breathes heavily, from time to time makes a plaintive sound. Do not try to move her or lift her, even if she has chosen a strange or unnatural position. Just stay close, say something in a gentle tone. This will help your pet calm down.
A few minutes after the start of attempts, the first kitten will appear. Babies are born in "bags" filled with liquid. The cat must gnaw through the umbilical cord, free the baby and lick it to remove mucus from the nose and mouth. If she cannot do it herself, follow the procedure using sterile wipes and a thoroughly disinfected knife or scissors. Other kittens will be born in the same way. Please note: a placenta should appear after each baby. If not all placentas have come out, this may indicate abnormalities in labor, so count them carefully. As a rule, the cat eats 1-2 placentas, and the rest can be thrown away.
