Bringing a litter of kittens into the world is a joyous occasion. As a responsible cat owner, you want to ensure your feline friend and her newborns are healthy and thriving. One crucial aspect of postpartum care is confirming that the entire placenta is expelled after each kitten’s birth. Retained placenta can lead to serious complications for the mother cat. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to identify potential signs of retained placenta in your cat, enabling you to seek timely veterinary assistance if needed.
Understanding the Placenta and Its Role
The placenta is a vital organ that develops during pregnancy, providing oxygen and nutrients to the developing kittens and removing waste products. Each kitten has its own placenta, which is expelled shortly after the kitten is born. The expulsion of the placenta, often referred to as the afterbirth, is a natural part of the birthing process. It’s essential that all placentas are expelled to prevent complications.
Why is it so important that the placenta be expelled? Retained placental tissue can lead to uterine infection (metritis), hemorrhage, and even sepsis, a life-threatening condition. These complications can significantly impact the mother cat’s health and well-being, potentially affecting her ability to care for her kittens.
Normal Postpartum Signs to Expect
Following delivery, your cat will exhibit certain behaviors and physical signs. Recognizing these normal occurrences will help you differentiate them from signs of potential complications, such as retained placenta.
Your cat will likely be exhausted and may spend a significant amount of time resting and nursing her kittens. She will also groom herself and her kittens to stimulate them and keep them clean.
Vaginal discharge is normal after giving birth. This discharge, called lochia, is typically reddish-brown to dark red and may last for several days to a few weeks. The volume of discharge should gradually decrease over time. Observe the color and consistency of the discharge for any abnormalities, which could indicate a problem.
Your cat may also experience uterine contractions as her uterus returns to its pre-pregnancy size. These contractions may be visible as abdominal spasms.
Identifying Potential Signs of Retained Placenta
While some postpartum signs are normal, certain symptoms may indicate that placental tissue remains inside the uterus. Vigilance and prompt action are crucial.
Abnormal Vaginal Discharge
The color, odor, and amount of vaginal discharge can offer clues. Normal lochia changes in color and decreases in volume.
Foul-smelling discharge is a significant warning sign of infection. If the discharge has a strong, unpleasant odor, it’s crucial to consult with a veterinarian immediately.
Excessive bleeding, especially if it persists for more than a day or two, can also be a sign of retained placenta. Monitor the amount of discharge carefully. Soaking through bedding multiple times a day is a cause for concern.
The presence of pus in the vaginal discharge also suggests an infection and warrants immediate veterinary attention.
Lethargy and Weakness
A new mother cat will be tired, but excessive lethargy and weakness are not normal.
If your cat is unusually listless, unresponsive, or unwilling to care for her kittens, it could indicate a systemic infection caused by retained placenta.
Observe her energy levels. If she shows a marked decrease in activity or seems weaker than expected, seek veterinary advice.
Loss of appetite can also indicate a problem. While some cats may have a reduced appetite immediately after giving birth, it should return within a day or two.
Fever
A fever is a common sign of infection. Taking your cat’s temperature can help identify a potential problem.
A normal rectal temperature for a cat is between 100.5°F and 102.5°F (38.1°C and 39.2°C). If your cat’s temperature is above this range, it could indicate an infection related to retained placenta.
You can use a digital rectal thermometer to take your cat’s temperature. Lubricate the thermometer with petroleum jelly and gently insert it into the rectum.
Abdominal Pain and Distension
A cat with retained placenta may exhibit signs of abdominal pain.
If your cat is unusually sensitive to touch in the abdominal area, cries out when you touch her abdomen, or is guarding her abdomen, it could indicate pain associated with uterine infection.
Abdominal distension, or swelling, can also be a sign of a problem. If your cat’s abdomen appears larger than expected after giving birth, it could be due to uterine infection or retained fluid.
Straining Without Producing Feces
Retained placenta and subsequent uterine infection can sometimes cause constipation or difficulty defecating.
If your cat is straining to defecate but not producing any feces, it could be a sign of a problem.
This straining can be due to discomfort and inflammation in the pelvic area.
Failure to Produce Milk
Milk production is essential for the kittens’ survival.
If your cat is not producing milk or is producing very little milk, it could be related to a systemic infection caused by retained placenta.
This lack of milk production can have serious consequences for the kittens, as they will not receive the necessary nutrients and antibodies.
Counting Placentas
The most direct way to determine if a placenta is retained is to count them. This requires careful observation during and after the birthing process.
Ideally, you should count the placentas as they are expelled. This can be challenging, especially if the mother cat is eating them (a normal behavior).
Keep a tally of the number of kittens born and compare it to the number of placentas you have observed. If you are unsure, err on the side of caution and contact your veterinarian.
Sometimes, the mother cat will pass a placenta later, but it’s important not to delay seeking veterinary advice if you suspect a problem.
When to Contact Your Veterinarian
If you observe any of the signs mentioned above, it’s crucial to contact your veterinarian immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent serious complications.
Do not attempt to treat your cat at home without consulting with a veterinarian. Home remedies can be ineffective and may even be harmful.
Your veterinarian will perform a physical examination and may recommend diagnostic tests, such as blood work and an ultrasound, to determine if there is retained placenta.
Treatment for retained placenta may include medication to help the uterus contract and expel the remaining tissue, antibiotics to treat infection, or, in severe cases, surgery to remove the retained placenta.
Veterinary Diagnostic Procedures
Your vet has several tools to diagnose retained placenta.
A physical exam is the first step. The vet will assess your cat’s overall condition, including her temperature, heart rate, and respiratory rate. They will also palpate her abdomen to check for pain, distension, or abnormalities.
Blood tests can help identify infection and assess your cat’s overall health. A complete blood count (CBC) can reveal elevated white blood cells, indicating infection. A blood chemistry panel can assess organ function.
Ultrasound is a valuable imaging technique that can help visualize the uterus and identify retained placental tissue. It can also rule out other potential causes of postpartum complications.
In some cases, radiographs (X-rays) may be used, although ultrasound is generally preferred for visualizing soft tissues.
Treatment Options Available
Treatment depends on the severity of the situation and the cat’s overall health.
Oxytocin is a hormone that can stimulate uterine contractions and help expel retained placental tissue. It is often administered via injection.
Antibiotics are used to treat uterine infection (metritis). The specific antibiotic chosen will depend on the type of bacteria causing the infection.
In some cases, manual removal of the retained placenta may be necessary. This procedure involves carefully inserting a gloved hand into the uterus to remove the remaining tissue. This is typically performed under anesthesia.
In severe cases, a hysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus) may be necessary. This is usually only considered as a last resort if other treatments have failed or if the cat’s health is severely compromised.
Prevention and Preparation
While it’s not always possible to prevent retained placenta, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk and prepare for potential complications.
Ensure your cat receives proper prenatal care, including a balanced diet and regular veterinary checkups. A healthy cat is better equipped to handle the birthing process and recover afterwards.
Create a quiet and comfortable birthing environment for your cat. Stress can sometimes interfere with the normal birthing process.
Observe your cat closely during and after labor. Knowing what to expect and being vigilant for signs of complications is crucial.
Have your veterinarian’s contact information readily available in case of an emergency.
Consider discussing the possibility of retained placenta with your veterinarian before your cat gives birth. They can provide you with specific instructions and advice based on your cat’s individual needs.
Long-Term Considerations for the Mother Cat
Even after successful treatment for retained placenta, there may be long-term considerations for the mother cat.
Monitor your cat’s overall health closely in the weeks and months following treatment. Look for any signs of recurrence of infection or other complications.
Spaying your cat can prevent future pregnancies and eliminate the risk of uterine infections and other reproductive problems. This is a common recommendation after a complicated birth.
Ensure your cat receives proper nutrition and care to support her recovery.
Consult with your veterinarian about any concerns you have regarding your cat’s long-term health.
Remember that while observing your cat closely, and counting placentas is helpful, it’s always better to seek professional advice from your vet if you have any concerns about your cat’s health. Their expertise will ensure your cat and her kittens receive the best possible care. Early intervention is key to a healthy outcome.
How can I tell if my cat has retained placenta after giving birth?
The most common signs include continued straining without producing more kittens, foul-smelling vaginal discharge, lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, and a visibly distended or painful abdomen. You might also notice your cat acting restless and distressed, pacing, or vocalizing excessively. Observe your cat closely for any deviation from normal postpartum behavior.
It’s crucial to keep track of the number of kittens born and the number of placentas passed. Typically, a placenta is expelled after each kitten, or sometimes one placenta can be expelled for every two kittens. If you are unsure if the number of placentas matches the number of kittens, this is a strong indicator of potential retained placenta and warrants immediate veterinary attention.
What are the risks of retained placenta in cats?
Retained placenta can lead to serious complications, including metritis (uterine infection), sepsis (blood poisoning), and peritonitis (inflammation of the abdominal lining). These conditions can be life-threatening if left untreated. The decaying placental tissue provides an ideal breeding ground for bacteria, quickly escalating into a systemic infection.
Another potential risk is hemorrhage. The uterus may not contract properly to control bleeding after delivery if placental fragments remain. In severe cases, the cat may require a blood transfusion or even surgical removal of the uterus (hysterectomy) to resolve the issue and save her life. Prompt veterinary intervention is essential to minimize these risks.
How soon after giving birth should a cat pass all placentas?
Ideally, a cat should pass all placentas within 24 hours after giving birth. It’s common for a placenta to be expelled shortly after each kitten is born, or sometimes a single placenta will follow the birth of two kittens. However, some cats might take a little longer, and this is usually not cause for immediate alarm if the cat is otherwise behaving normally.
If more than 24 hours have passed since the last kitten was born and you suspect a retained placenta (based on observing related symptoms), it is imperative to consult a veterinarian immediately. Waiting longer can significantly increase the risk of complications and compromise the cat’s health. Time is of the essence in these situations.
What should I do if I suspect my cat has a retained placenta?
Contact your veterinarian immediately. Do not attempt to remove the placenta yourself, as this could cause serious injury to the cat. Provide your vet with as much information as possible, including the number of kittens born, the number of placentas you observed being passed, and any symptoms you have noticed.
Your veterinarian will likely perform a physical examination and may recommend diagnostic tests such as bloodwork and an ultrasound or X-ray to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment options might include medication to help the uterus contract and expel the placenta, antibiotics to combat infection, or, in severe cases, surgery to remove the retained placenta or perform a hysterectomy.
Can retained placenta be prevented in cats?
While you can’t guarantee prevention, providing excellent prenatal care can help minimize the risk. This includes ensuring your cat receives proper nutrition, regular veterinary checkups, and a stress-free environment during pregnancy. Maintaining a healthy weight and addressing any underlying health conditions before pregnancy can also contribute to a smoother delivery.
During labor, create a quiet and comfortable nesting area for your cat and avoid disturbing her unless necessary. Monitoring the delivery process without interfering unnecessarily can allow the cat to labor naturally, potentially reducing the likelihood of complications. Keeping a record of the kittens born and placentas passed is also crucial for early detection of potential problems.
What is the treatment for retained placenta in cats?
Treatment for retained placenta typically involves one or more of the following approaches: administration of oxytocin to stimulate uterine contractions and expulsion of the placenta, antibiotics to combat or prevent infection, and supportive care, such as intravenous fluids, to address dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. The veterinarian will choose the appropriate treatment based on the cat’s condition and the severity of the situation.
In more severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. A veterinarian may perform a procedure to manually remove the retained placenta or, if the uterus is severely infected or damaged, a hysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus) might be required. The goal of the treatment is to remove the source of infection, prevent further complications, and ensure the cat’s recovery.
How can I care for my cat after treatment for retained placenta?
After treatment, it’s important to follow your veterinarian’s instructions carefully. This may include administering prescribed medications, monitoring your cat’s temperature and appetite, and keeping the incision site (if surgery was performed) clean and dry. Provide a quiet and comfortable environment for your cat to recover.
Continue to monitor your cat for any signs of infection, such as fever, lethargy, or discharge from the incision site. Ensure your cat has access to fresh water and palatable food to encourage eating. If you notice any concerning symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately. With proper care and monitoring, most cats recover fully after treatment for retained placenta.