Signs Your Cat Is About to Give Birth

1 Pre-Birth Signs in Cats

I. Signs Before Birth

1. The belly enlarges visibly and sags; the two rows of nipples become easy to see—a sign of impending birth.

2. Near delivery the nipples swell and may leak milk, or milk appears when gently pressed.

3. The mother seeks a quiet, comfortable place as a nursery; if the owner prepared one, she stays in it.

4. On the day, she stops eating from pre-birth discomfort; temperature drops slightly 12-24 hours before, then returns to normal at delivery.

5. In the last hours, uterine contractions cause pain and restlessness, even rapid breathing, and she drinks a lot.

6. Just before delivery, thick fluid flows from the vulva.

II. Post-Birth Care

1. In the first days she is very sensitive; don’t speak loudly or step heavily near her rest, and keep strangers away from mom and kittens.

2. Some mothers want to be alone with babies; fill the water bowl and leave, checking the kittens occasionally.

3. She must stay in a clean, dry place after birth to avoid bacteria, as her body is very weak.

4. She needs nutrition—nutritious food or fresh fish broth—for more milk.

5. Also supplement calcium after birth.

Birth is important and dangerous; ignoring pre-birth care can cause dystocia, so care closely. If you have other related questions, consult an online pet veterinarian.