Signs Your Cat Is About to Give Birth: 5 Hours Before Delivery

Changes in Behavior and Appetite: The five-hour countdown to your cat’s delivery is often marked by noticeable shifts in her demeanor and eating habits. She might exhibit restlessness and anxiety, pacing more than usual, and even vocalizing her discomfort. A decrease in appetite is also common; your usually ravenous feline might show little interest in her favorite treats. This isn’t necessarily a cause for alarm in the context of the upcoming birth, but it’s a key indicator to watch for. The discomfort associated with uterine contractions contributes to these behavioral changes, leading to the cat appearing more irritable than normal. She might also exhibit a lower-than-normal body temperature.

Physical Signs of Impending Labor: As labor approaches, you’ll likely observe several distinct physical signs. One of the most significant is the nesting instinct. Your cat will spend considerable time preparing her birthing space, frequently digging and rearranging her bedding. This is a powerful and unmistakable sign that the big day is near. You may also observe changes in her mammary glands. Her nipples will become swollen and engorged, possibly with a visible discharge of colostrum, a thick, yellowish pre-milk. Gently palpate the nipples – you may feel the colostrum even without visible discharge.

Uterine Contractions and Related Symptoms: The pain associated with uterine contractions will become increasingly apparent during the final hours. You might notice your cat arching her back, restlessly shifting her weight, or frequently looking back at her abdomen. Observe her breathing—you may see heavy panting or shallow breaths caused by the intensity of the contractions. In some cases, you will visually observe the rhythmic tightening and relaxing of her abdomen. These contractions will become more frequent and intense as labor progresses.

Pre-Labor Discharge and Elimination: Another significant indicator is the presence of vaginal discharge. This could be a pinkish or reddish mucus, signaling the beginning of the birth process. In some cases, you might observe a rupture of the amniotic sac, resulting in a clearer, watery discharge. It is important to note that the discharge of this clear fluid signifies that labor is imminent, usually within one to two hours. If this timeframe is exceeded, seek veterinary attention immediately, as this could indicate dystocia (difficult labor). It’s also typical for cats to thoroughly empty their bowels and bladders before labor, so you may observe more frequent urination in the hours leading up to the birth. In combination with nesting behavior, this instinctual house-cleaning behavior serves as a valuable indicator.

Changes in Hydration and Body Shape: A cat preparing for labor may exhibit changes in hydration. While appetite decreases, they might show an increased thirst, drinking more water than usual. The size and shape of the cat’s abdomen will also change significantly in the hours before delivery. As the kittens grow larger and fully develop, the abdomen will become visibly larger and more distended. The two rows of nipples will become more prominent as the abdomen expands.

Recognizing the Need for Veterinary Assistance: While many cats deliver without complications, it is crucial to be aware of potential problems. If you observe prolonged labor (more than two hours between kittens), excessive bleeding, a kitten appearing stuck, or any sign of distress in your cat, immediate veterinary intervention is necessary. Do not hesitate to contact your vet at any point if you are concerned about your cat’s well-being or are unsure about what you’re observing. Regular monitoring in the final hours, recognizing the above-mentioned signs, can facilitate early identification of complications and allows for prompt, life-saving medical intervention. Remember, vigilant observation and prompt action are crucial for ensuring a safe and successful delivery for both your cat and her kittens.