Ex 3 - Feline Obstetrics

Question 1

Normal gestation in felines

Answer 1

62-71 days from first day of breeding

Question 2

Stage 1

Answer 2

restless, excessive grooming and purring, scratching at nesting area/box, pacing

Question 3

Stage 2

Answer 3

strong, visible contractions

kitten typically born w/in 60 min of onset of stage 2 and then q3–60mins

Question 4

Stage 3

Answer 4

Delivery of fetal membranes – usually with stage 2

Question 5

How long does normal parturition last?

Answer 5

about 16 hours on average

Question 6

Can queens deliver healthy kittens over days?

Answer 6

Yes! over 2-3 days is normal!

Question 7

What kinds of felines are at higher risk for dystocia?

Answer 7

purebred - persians

Question 8

Maternal causes

Answer 8

Obstructive:
- uterine prolapse, torsion, or rupture (these animals will be systemically ill)

Primary uterine inertia

• MOST COMMON cause of feline dystocia
• presents as prolonged gestations –> must know date of breeding

Question 9

How do we diagnose dystocia?

Answer 9

• active labor for 2-4 hrs with no kitten born
• 69-70 days from breeding (prolonged gestation)
• systemic illness
• abnormal discharge
• partial delivery
• fetal distress (HR < 180)

Question 10

Patient eval - straightforward (same as others)

Answer 10

hx, PE, labwork, US, rads, etc

Question 11

Medical tx

Answer 11

• If queen has already delivered at least 1 kitten
• if queen is not physically compromised
• 3-5 IU oxytocin IM, repeat in 20-30 mins –> this is risky if cervix is closed!
• manual manipulation can be successful (gently!)

Question 12

Surgical Tx

Answer 12

Do NOT attempt medical Tx if you are not prepared to perform C section

Proceed quickly to sx if medical Tx unsuccessful