Why pregnancy loss happens in cats

The pitter-patter of tiny paws is an exciting prospect for many cat owners. Unfortunately, sometimes feline pregnancies take an unexpected turn, resulting in miscarriage. While it can be emotionally difficult, understanding the causes of miscarriage in cats can help you navigate this experience.

According to PetMD, miscarriage, also known as spontaneous abortion, is not uncommon in cats. These miscarriages can happen due to various medical reasons. It’s important to have your cat checked by a veterinarian after a miscarriage to rule out any serious underlying health issues.

Pregnancy Losses and Signs

Miscarriage, also known as fetal resorption, can occur at any stage of pregnancy. In the early stages, the body might reabsorb the fetus with minimal signs going unnoticed. However, in later stages, you might observe vaginal bleeding, discharge containing tissue, or a sudden decrease in abdominal size. If you suspect your cat may be experiencing a miscarriage, consulting your veterinarian is crucial.

What Causes The Pregnancy Loss

Several factors can contribute to miscarriage in cats:

• Infectious Diseases: Viral infections like feline herpesvirus, feline panleukopenia (feline distemper), and feline leukemia virus can attack developing kittens. Bacterial and parasitic infections can also play a role.
• Hormonal Imbalances: Progesterone, a hormone essential for maintaining pregnancy, needs to be at sufficient levels. Low progesterone can lead to miscarriage.
• Congenital Defects: Severe developmental abnormalities in the fetus can cause the body to naturally terminate the pregnancy.
• Nutritional Deficiencies: A lack of essential nutrients can hinder fetal development, increasing the risk of miscarriage.
• Severe Stress: Intense stress can disrupt hormone regulation and potentially lead to miscarriage.
• Injury or Trauma: Physical trauma to the mother can also be a contributing factor.

Preventing Miscarriage

While not all miscarriages are preventable, certain steps can help:

• Vaccinations: Ensure your cat is up-to-date on vaccinations to protect against infectious diseases.
• Balanced Diet: Provide your cat with a high-quality diet formulated for pregnant queens.
• Stress Management: Maintain a calm and comfortable environment for your pregnant cat.
• Prenatal Care: Schedule regular checkups with your veterinarian throughout your cat’s pregnancy.

Supporting Your Cat

If your cat experiences a miscarriage, offer her plenty of love and attention. Monitor her for signs of infection, such as lethargy or loss of appetite. Your veterinarian can advise on the next steps and provide emotional support during this challenging time.

Remember, miscarriage in cats is a relatively common occurrence. By understanding the causes and taking preventive measures, you can help your feline friend have a healthy pregnancy.

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Artificial Intelligence assisted in compiling this article.