What Are the Causes of Premature Births in Felines?

Although cats are notorious for being prolific breeders, there are times when a cat may give birth to kittens prematurely. According to "Cat Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook," any kitten born before the 60th day after conception will die.

  1. Illness

    • Many illnesses can cause premature birth in cats. These include the feline herpes virus, feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) and feline leukemia virus (FeLV).

    Nutrition

    • Pregnant cats that are starving or cannot get adequate food will give birth prematurely in order to try to survive.

    Considerations

    • According to Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine, cats with hypoluteoidism cannot produce enough of the hormone progesterone to keep the kittens for a full term.

    Poisons

    • Being exposed to certain chemicals can cause a cat to give birth prematurely. These include some foods high in Vitamin A such as raw liver, household chemicals or human medications such as glucocorticoids or antibiotics.

    Injury

    • If the pregnant cat is severely injured, such as hit by a car, she will abort in order to try to keep herself alive.