Why is a cat’s belly still so big after giving birth?

Dec 28,2023
4Min

If a cat’s belly is still very big after giving birth, there are three main reasons to consider: 1. Just after giving birth, the uterus has not recovered yet, so it is slightly enlarged. 2. There is still a fetus in the cat’s belly, which may cause dystocia or stillbirth. 3. Caused by high hormone levels in cats. It is recommended that the owner carefully observe the cat's condition. If the cat not only has a big belly but also shows poor mental and physical conditions, it is necessary to take the cat to the pet hospital for a X-ray examination as soon as possible. ​​​​​​

1. The uterus has not recovered

Since the cat’s abdomen is extremely enlarged during pregnancy and the skin’s tension is limited, the cat’s abdomen will become loose after delivery and will not immediately return to its original size. Generally, it will recover gradually, and no other abnormal symptoms will appear during the recovery period. At this time, the owner only needs to pay attention to supplementing the cat's nutrition and providing a quiet and comfortable feeding environment.

2. There is still a fetus in the belly

If the cat has a big belly after giving birth and still exhibits fussy behavior, it may be because there is still an unfinished fetus in the belly. In this situation, you should take the cat to the pet hospital for a B-ultrasound examination in time to check whether there is still a fetus in the body. If the cat is giving birth too slowly, you can give an oxytocin injection to help the cat give birth. But if there is dystocia or stillbirth, a caesarean section will be performed to remove the fetus.

3. Caused by high hormone levels in the body

Since cats will still breastfeed their kittens about 40 days after giving birth, the progesterone content in the cat’s body is still relatively high for the normal excretion of milk, and the cat’s belly will be a little big. This is a normal situation and the owner does not need to worry too much. But if the female cat is in poor mental and physical condition after giving birth, it is necessary for the owner to take the cat for a check-up.

Note: After a cat gives birth to a baby, the cat will be very weak. It is recommended that the owner feed the cat a few more times a day, a little less each time, and prepare enough water for the cat. In addition, the cat’s body is relatively weak after giving birth, so you must pay attention to keeping the cat warm and not letting the cat catch a cold.

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