Postpartum Care for Cats: What You Need to Know Tips to Care for Your Cat During the Postpartum Period

Cats are beloved members of many families, and their health and well-being are of the utmost importance. One critical time in a cat's life is the postpartum period, which begins immediately after giving birth and lasts for several weeks. During this time, it is important to provide proper care to ensure the mother's and her kittens' health. 

In this article, we will discuss the important aspects of postpartum care for cats, including monitoring the mother's health, caring for the kittens, and ensuring proper nutrition for both the mother and her offspring. Whether you are a first-time cat owner or have experience with feline motherhood, this guide will provide valuable information to help ensure the best outcome for your feline family.

Mastitis

Mastitis is an inflammation of the mammary glands, usually caused by a bacterial infection. It commonly occurs in lactating women but can also occur in cats who have recently given birth. Mastitis can cause fever, pain, and swelling in the affected area and lead to an infection in the milk. 

In cats, it can also cause a decrease in milk production, making it difficult for the kittens to nurse. If left untreated, it can become severe and potentially life-threatening. Treatment typically involves antibiotics, such as Clavamox, and pain management. In addition to veterinary care, it's also important to monitor the cat's milk production and to ensure that the kittens are nursing properly and getting enough milk.

Hypocalcemia

Hypocalcemia, also known as low blood calcium, is a condition in which the calcium level in the blood is below normal. It is a common complication that can occur in cats during the postpartum period, particularly in those that have had a large litter of kittens or are nursing multiple litters. The body uses calcium to contract the uterus muscles and initiate milk production, so lactating cats need calcium more.

Symptoms of hypocalcemia can include muscle tremors, twitching, weakness, and seizures. In severe cases, it can lead to coma or death. A veterinarian needs to diagnose and treat the cat as soon as possible. Treatment typically involves calcium supplementation, such as calcium gluconate or calcium chloride, given through an IV or subcutaneous injection. The cat's diet may also be adjusted to include more calcium-rich foods.

Additionally, it's important to monitor the lactating cats' diet and ensure they have enough calcium and other vital nutrients during lactation. It's also important to keep an eye on their body condition to prevent over-milking, which can cause hypocalcemia and other complications.

Uterine Metritis

Uterine metritis is an infection of the uterus that can occur in cats after giving birth. It is caused by bacteria that enter the uterus during delivery or from an untreated infection prior to delivery. Symptoms of uterine metritis include fever, abdominal pain, and discharge from the vagina. The cat may also have a reduced appetite and appear lethargic. Left untreated, it can lead to serious complications such as sepsis and even death.

Diagnosis of uterine metritis typically involves a physical examination and laboratory tests to confirm the presence of infection. Treatment typically involves antibiotics to clear the infection and anti-inflammatory medication to reduce pain and inflammation. In some cases, a cat may require hospitalization for treatment. 

It's also important to keep the cat in a clean and comfortable environment and ensure proper nutrition and hydration.

Uterine metritis can be prevented by ensuring good hygiene and sanitation during delivery and keeping an eye on the cat's health before and after delivery. 

Eclampsia

Eclampsia, also known as milk fever, is a condition that can occur in cats and other animals during the postpartum period. It is caused by a deficiency of calcium in the blood, which can happen when the cat's body is unable to keep up with the demands of lactation. Eclampsia can occur as a result of hypocalcemia, a condition in which the blood calcium level is too low.

Symptoms of eclampsia include muscle tremors, twitching, weakness, and seizures. If left untreated, it can lead to coma or death. Eclampsia is a serious condition that requires immediate veterinary care. Treatment typically involves calcium supplementation, such as calcium gluconate or calcium chloride, given through an IV or subcutaneous injection. The cat's diet may also be adjusted to include more calcium-rich foods.

Cat parents need to monitor lactating cats' diets and ensure they have enough calcium and other vital nutrients during lactation. It's also important to keep an eye on their body condition to prevent over-milking, which can cause eclampsia and other complications.

Eclampsia is preventable by ensuring that lactating cats receive adequate nutrition and by monitoring their blood calcium levels during the postpartum period. 

Health Issues in Newborn Kittens

Newborn kittens are fragile and require proper care to ensure their health and survival. Some common health issues that can occur in newborn kittens include:

1. Hypothermia: Kittens are unable to regulate their body temperature for the first few weeks of life, making them susceptible to hypothermia. To prevent hypothermia, it is important to keep the kittens warm and dry and to provide a heat source such as a heating pad or hot water bottle.

2. Congenital defects: Some kittens may be born with congenital defects such as cleft palate, heart defects, or limb abnormalities. These defects can be life-threatening and may require surgical intervention.

3. Infections: Kittens can be susceptible to infections such as feline panleukopenia, feline leukemia, and feline immunodeficiency virus. These infections can be transmitted through the placenta or through contact with the infected mother's milk or other fluids.

4. Parasites: Kittens can also be infected with parasites such as roundworms, tapeworms, and fleas. These parasites can cause diarrhea, anemia, and other health problems.

5. Nutritional deficiencies: Kittens that are not getting enough milk or proper nutrition can develop nutritional deficiencies, which can lead to growth and development problems.

It's important to provide proper care for newborn kittens by ensuring they are kept warm, clean, and dry, ensuring they receive enough milk or formula cat food and monitoring their health closely. It's also important to seek veterinary care if any health concerns arise.