How to Know the Cat is about to give birth

Measure body temperature. Starting to check a cat’s temperature around the 60th day after mating can fairly accurately predict that a cat is about to give birth. Even if you don’t know your cat’s mating date, regularly taking her temperature when she’s already quite pregnant can help you predict her due date. ^{[7] [8]}

• A cat’s rectal temperature during pregnancy ranges from 38.1 to 38.9 °C.
• Within about 2 hours before birth, your cat’s rectal temperature will drop by at most 2 degrees.

Observe the cat’s physical condition. As the due date approaches, your cat’s nipples and mammary glands will grow larger. Cats may also begin to lick the nipples. Some other physical signs include: belly drop, soft and enlarged vulva. All these signs are quite clearly observable. ^[9]

Pay attention to the cat’s breathing. If you suspect that your cat is about to go into labor and can approach it, listen closely to the cat’s breathing. A cat’s breathing rate at birth may speed up and even start panting. Cats may also begin to meow continuously. ^[10]

Feel the tension and pressure in your abdomen. Near the time of birth, in cats will begin to appear contractions. You can feel this by gently placing your hand on the cat’s belly. Tension and pressure in the abdomen is often a sign that contractions are in progress. Sometimes you can also see the cat’s belly contract into a rhythm. At this time, the cat usually lies on its side, so you can see it easier. ^{[11] [12] [13]}

Contact your veterinarian if labor is taking too long. Most mother cats are usually able to give birth on their own. However, watch carefully when your mother cat begins labor. If there are signs (such as contractions) that your cat is pushing but hasn’t delivered after about an hour, you should contact your veterinarian immediately. The doctor will know what to do to help it. ^{[14] [15]}

Watch your cat closely if its body temperature rises. Not only does a temperature check indicate that a cat is about to give birth, it also helps identify potential hazards. Usually, a cat’s body temperature will drop during childbirth. If your cat’s temperature rises, you need to keep an eye on her and check her temperature again as soon as possible. If your cat’s temperature is still higher than normal, contact your veterinarian. ^[16]

Note unusual discharge. During childbirth, the cat may bleed a little. Pregnant cats may also secrete mucus and amniotic fluid when they are about to give birth. However, if your cat is bleeding profusely or has a foul-smelling discharge, you need to call your vet right away as it could be a sign that it’s not in good health. ^[17]

Pay attention to whether the cat is in pain. Childbirth is often accompanied by discomfort and behavioral changes, so it can be difficult to tell if your cat is okay. Most mother cats are able to give birth on their own, but if you see your cat biting the vulva or whining and licking the vulva, you should consider contacting your veterinarian to be on the lookout for possible risks. happen. ^[18]