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My cat is in labor for hours with only one kitten. What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed | 1 year and 10 months old | 10 lbs

My Cat has been in some sort of labor state for up to 7 hours and I was reading about how it should only last for 2-4 She has given birth to one, but has decided to wander around and leave it alone. I can see her stomach moving from her other kittens. I don't know what to do and she is denying labor. I really need help. She is my cat and I really love her, please tell me what to do.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on February 11th, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Birdie!! Cats can get very easily stressed when in labor and can delay the birth of subsequent kittens up to 24 hours. If she is actively contracting for greater than 2 hours without the birth of a kitten she needs to go to an emergency hospital. I would confine her to a quiet place with the kitten. Only one person should check on her every 1-2 hours. Keep the room dim and do not allow a lot of stress. I hope this helps and I wish Birdie the best!

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