Difficulty Delivering Kittens (Dystocia) in Cats

Regular labor in cats can be separated into two distinct segments. The first phase involves nesting behavior, pacing, and restlessness. This can last from 6-12 hours and involves contractions which are not obvious to pet parents. During this phase, the kittens are orienting into the correct positions for birth while the mother prepares for active labor. The second phase begins with stronger contractions and obvious straining by the mother. The first kitten should emerge within 30 minutes of this stage beginning and subsequent kittens emerge 10-60 minutes apart. Labor typically takes from 4-6 hours but can be longer. In cases of dystocia, an error occurs in the birthing process at some stage and can be life threatening for the mother and the kittens.

If dystocia is not recognized and treated, the mother and her kittens have a poor prognosis. Kittens trapped in the uterus are unlikely to survive and may be stillborn; and mothers can develop severe, fatal infections.

Dystocia, while not common in cats, is a medical emergency. Prompt veterinary intervention gives the best chances of survival for both mother and kitten(s).

The severity of symptoms is variable and dependent on the underlying cause of dystocia, the mother’s overall health, and number and size of fetuses.

Causes of dystocia can be divided into two sections;

Maternal factors, such as

• Uterine inertia (weak uterine contractions)
• Small pelvic opening

Fetal factors, such as

• Abnormal orientation in birth canal
• Birth defects

• Pregnancy lasting more than 70 days without start of labor
• More than 4 hours in active labor without passing the first kitten
• More than 60 minutes between kittens
• Queen in obvious pain
• Abnormal vaginal discharge (frank blood, dark green discharge before any neonates are born [indicates placental separation])
• Kitten stuck at vulva

A possible case of dystocia requires immediate determination of whether medical or surgical intervention is needed. A full physical exam, including digital vaginal exam, is the first step. Diagnostic imaging (x-ray and ultrasound) can determine the presence and number of fetuses, as well as their size, position, and viability.

Medical management may be considered when the condition of the queen and fetuses is stable, when there is proper fetal position and presentation, and when there is no obstruction. In this instance, drugs are given to promote uterine contractions. Pain medications and sedatives may also be administered. If there is no response, surgical intervention (a cesarean section or C-section) is needed.

Medical therapy is less than 30% effective when implemented. Prognosis with C-section is variable, but usually good.

There is no specific way to prevent dystocia. Early detection of problems and prompt veterinary intervention give the best chances for the survival and health of the queen and her kittens. It is also useful to have a plan in place with a veterinarian prior to the delivery date in case of emergency.

Mothers with either excessively large or small litters, inexperienced mothers, those who have had dystocia with previous litters, and certain breeds of cat are all more vulnerable to dystocia.

Queens who have had a previous instance of dystocia are advised to not be bred, andc-sections to be scheduled in advance.

Dystocia is uncommon in cats, and is estimated to occur in only 3–6% of cat births.

Medical

• Drugs to stimulate contractions (Oxytocin +/- calcium gluconate)
• Pain medications
• Sedative medications
• Manual assistance

Surgical

• Cesarean section