Introduction
As a pet science blog author, I’ve always been fascinated by the miracle of birth, and cats are no exception. Queening, as it’s called, is a beautiful and delicate process that requires careful preparation and attention. In this article, I’ll share my insights and experiences on how to ensure a safe and comfortable delivery for your feline friend.
Setting Up a Safe Delivery Area
The first step is to provide your cat with a peaceful place to deliver her kittens. I remember when my cat, Luna, was expecting. I set up a cozy box lined with soft blankets in a quiet corner of my home. It was easy to clean and provided the perfect environment for her to feel safe and secure.
I made sure to avoid materials that could pose a risk to the kittens, such as small or torn blankets or shredded paper. I also used feline pheromone spray like Feliway to create a calming atmosphere. It’s essential to give your cat time to adjust to the delivery area, ideally one to two weeks before her due date.
During the delivery, I used newspapers to line the box, replacing them as they became wet. Afterward, I thoroughly cleaned the box and lined it with fresh papers and a blanket. It’s crucial to avoid strong-smelling cleaners, as the mother and offspring rely on their sense of smell to identify each other.
Gathering Necessary Supplies
Preparing the right supplies is another critical aspect of ensuring a successful birth. I kept a second box on hand to place kittens in during sibling births, protecting them from any potential disturbances. A heating pad covered with a fleece pad and towels helped maintain a comfortable temperature for the newborns.
I also had a stack of soft, clean towels ready to help clean off the kittens. White or light-colored towels were particularly useful, as they showed any discharge or placenta more clearly. Other essential supplies included sterile hemostats, blunt-end scissors, alcohol, matches, heavy sewing thread, dental floss, and a gram scale to weigh the newborns.
Stages of Labor in Cats
Luna’s labor was a fascinating experience to witness. The first stage involved her cervix dilating and softening, which can take 12-24 hours. She showed signs of nesting behavior, such as rearranging the towels in her box. The second stage began when she started actively pushing to deliver the first kitten, which usually takes the longest due to the dilation of the cervix.
The third stage involved the delivery of the placenta, which usually accompanies each kitten. Luna would eat the placenta, but I made sure to remove some after a few to prevent any digestive issues. It’s essential to keep track of the placentas to ensure all kittens have been born.
Keeping Detailed Records
Maintaining accurate records during the delivery is crucial for early problem detection and monitoring the kittens’ growth. I kept a detailed record of each kitten’s birth time, gender, identification marking, weight, and whether the placenta was expelled.
Conclusion
Witnessing Luna give birth to her kittens was a humbling and awe-inspiring experience. By preparing a safe delivery area, gathering the necessary supplies, and keeping detailed records, I was able to ensure a smooth and successful birth for her and her babies.
If you’re expecting kittens, I hope this article has provided you with valuable insights and tips to help you prepare. Remember, the key is to create a calm, clean, and comfortable environment for your cat and her newborns. Good luck, and congratulations on your soon-to-arrive feline family members!
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