* Labor is unpredictable: The timing and number of kittens can vary greatly.
* Resting periods: A cat may pause for a few hours between kittens, making it seem like she's done when she's not.
* Possible complications: If there are any complications during labor, it can be difficult to determine if she's finished or still has more kittens to deliver.
What to watch for:
* A decrease in contractions: The intervals between contractions will likely lengthen.
* Resting behavior: The cat will rest more after each kitten is born.
* Cleanliness: The cat will usually lick her kittens clean after each birth.
Signs that your cat might need help:
* Contractions lasting longer than 30 minutes with no kittens born:
* More than 2 hours have passed since the last kitten was born:
* Excessive bleeding, straining, or vocalizing:
* Signs of distress or weakness in the cat:
* The kitten is stuck during birth:
If you suspect any of these things, you should contact your veterinarian immediately.
It's best to be prepared for a potential long labor and have your veterinarian's contact information readily available.