My cat had kittens, but only one placenta passed. When should I worry?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | unspayed | 2 years old | 6.6 lbs
My cat has just had 2 kittens about 4 hours ago and only passed one placenta and i had to cut the other umbilical cord as kitten was left attached she still hasnt passed the other placenta and theres at least one kitten left inside and still moving shes now sleeping how long before i should worry about retained placenta and it possibly interupting the labour her labour started about 7-8 hours ago
4 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on July 4th, 2017
Cats can deliver kittens with longer breaks between than dogs. I recommend keeping her separated in a quiet area and letting nature take its course. It is very unusual for cats to have trouble with labor. If she has not passed another kitten in 4-5 hours I would call your local vet for direction. At anytime if she is not eating.,drinking, or acting properly I would take her to the vet
4Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on June 28th, 2018
Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Cats can delay labor for a maximum of 24 hours. If it has been longer than 24 hours then that constitutes an emergency. If you are concerned about a retained kitten that hasn't been born great than 24 hours after the birth of the last kitten I highly recommend a Vet appointment. They can take an X-ray to confirm she is finished. I wish Chloe the best!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on August 16th, 2018
While cats can take a break between kittens, 20 hours is long time between kittens and I would take Kitty into the vet now to be safe. Be sure to bring all her kittens with her as well. Best of luck!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on June 10th, 2017
Hi there. No, it's normal for labor or birthing breaks to last that long. I wish there was something at home you could do, but the best thing would be to get her in right away. I hope she feels better soon
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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