How to Stimulate a Kitten's Breathing

When a cat gives birth, it is recommended that you don't get involved unless absolutely necessary. Sometimes, though, a litter of kittens will come out of the birth canal in such quick succession that the mother cat doesn't have time to fully attend to each kitten. If you see that a kitten is not breathing, it is necessary to step in and help stimulate the kitten's breathing.

Things You'll Need

  • Towel
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Instructions

    • 1

      Watch each kitten as it is delivered and check to see if it is breathing. Notice whether the kitten's stomach is moving up and down or not. If it isn't, stimulate the kitten's breathing on your own.

    • 2

      Take a towel and wrap it around your index finger.

    • 3

      Gently wipe the mucus away from the kitten's mouth and nose. It is important that you handle the kitten gently. Newborn feline skin can tear easily.

    • 4

      If the kitten still does not begin to breathe, wrap the kitten in a towel. Take the wrapped kitten and place it in your palms on its back.

    • 5

      With the kitten's legs facing toward you, gently swing the kitten toward the floor. This will help remove any clogged mucus inside the kitten's nose.

    • 6

      Once the kitten is breathing, place it back with its mother.