How to Tell if Your Cat Has a Dead Kitten Inside

Cats are wonderful pets and provide us with companionship and comfort. As a cat owner, it is essential to know when your cat is in distress or experiencing health issues. One of the most heartbreaking situations that can occur for a cat owner is the loss of a litter of kittens. In some cases, the mother cat may experience complications during pregnancy or delivery that lead to the death of one or more kittens.

Marks of a Compromised Pregnancy

Cats are very adept at hiding pain and discomfort, so it is important to pay close attention to your cat’s behavior and health throughout her pregnancy. One of the earliest signs of a compromised pregnancy is a decrease in appetite. As the pregnancy progresses, your cat’s appetite should increase, but if she starts to refuse food or eats less than usual, it could be a sign that something is wrong.

One more sign of a compromised pregnancy is lethargy or a lack of energy. If your cat seems less active than usual, spends more time sleeping, or appears to be in pain, it could be an indication that she is experiencing complications.

Physical Symptoms of a Dead Kitten Inside

If your cat has a dead kitten inside, there are several physical symptoms that you may notice. One of the most obvious signs is a swollen abdomen. As the dead kitten begins to decompose, it can cause the mother cat’s abdomen to become distended and firm to the touch.

You may also notice that your cat is vomiting or has diarrhea. This is because the dead kitten can cause a blockage in the digestive system, preventing food from passing through normally.

In some cases, you may be able to feel the Symptoms of Dead Kitten inside Cat abdomen. If you gently palpate your cat’s belly, you may feel a lump or mass that should not be there. However, it is important to be very gentle and avoid putting too much pressure on your cat’s abdomen, as this can cause pain and further complications. Other signs of a dead kitten inside may include a lack of movement or activity from the mother cat’s belly, a foul odor emanating from her mouth or vulva, and a high fever.

Signs and Symptoms of a Dead Kitten inside a Cat

There are several signs and symptoms that can indicate the presence of a dead kitten inside a cat. These can include:

Lack of Movement: One of the most common signs of a dead kitten inside a cat is a lack of movement in the abdomen. Normally, you should be able to feel the kittens moving inside the mother cat’s belly. However, if a kitten has died, you may no longer feel any movement.

Foul Smell: Another possible sign of a dead kitten inside a cat is a foul odor coming from the cat’s genital area. This can be a sign of infection, which can occur when a dead kitten is left inside the womb for too long.

Lethargy: Cats who are carrying a dead kitten may appear lethargic or depressed. They may spend more time sleeping or seem less interested in playing or interacting with their owners.

Loss of Appetite: A cat carrying a dead kitten may also experience a loss of appetite or refuse to eat altogether. This can be a sign of infection or other health issues.

Expulsion: A cat carrying a dead kitten may also experience vaginal expulsion. This can be a sign of infection or other complications.

If you notice any of these signs or symptoms in your cat, it is important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible. A veterinarian can perform an ultrasound or other tests to determine whether a dead kitten is present and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Conclusion

In some cases, your vet may recommend surgery to remove the dead kitten. This procedure, known as a cesarean section, involves making an incision in your cat’s abdomen and uterus to remove the dead kitten. It is important to note that this is a major surgery and carries some risks, so it is essential to discuss the pros and cons with your vet before making a decision.