Understanding Placenta Consumption in Cats
In the wild, cats instinctively eat their placentas for several important reasons. This behavior helps eliminate evidence of birth that might attract predators and provides essential nutrients to support the mother's recovery. However, in domestic settings, this natural behavior isn't strictly necessary for the cat's wellbeing.
The Role of Placenta in Feline Birth
Each kitten born comes with its own placenta, which served as a vital lifeline during pregnancy. The placenta provides nutrients, oxygen, and antibodies to the developing kittens. After birth, these tissues need to be either consumed by the mother or properly disposed of to maintain a hygienic environment.
What to Do When Your Cat Doesn't Eat the Placenta
If your cat chooses not to eat the placenta, it's important to take appropriate action:
- Remove the placenta promptly to maintain cleanliness
- Dispose of it properly to prevent bacterial growth
- Clean the birthing area thoroughly
- Monitor the mother cat for any signs of distress
Health Implications and Monitoring
When a cat doesn't eat the placenta, there are several important health considerations to keep in mind:
Physical Recovery
While the mother cat may miss out on some nutritional benefits, a well-fed domestic cat will typically recover normally without consuming the placenta. Ensure she has access to high-quality food and fresh water to support her recovery.
Retained Placenta Risks
The most serious concern isn't whether the cat eats the placenta, but rather ensuring all placentas are properly expelled. A retained placenta can lead to serious complications including:
- Infection
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Decreased milk production
When to Seek Veterinary Care
Contact your veterinarian immediately if you observe:
- Foul-smelling discharge
- Continued straining after birth
- Lethargy or depression
- Loss of appetite
- Fever
- Discomfort or pain
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do cats eat their own placentas after giving birth?
Cats eat their placentas instinctively to hide evidence of birth from predators and to obtain valuable nutrients that aid in recovery and milk production.
What are the risks if a cat does not expel all of its placentas after delivery?
Retained placentas can lead to serious complications including infection, fever, sepsis, and potentially death if left untreated. Immediate veterinary care is essential if retention is suspected.
How can I identify if a cat has retained a placenta after birth?
Signs include foul-smelling discharge, fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, and continued straining. Count the placentas during birth - there should be one for each kitten.
What should I do if my cat doesn't eat its placenta after giving birth?
Remove and dispose of the placenta properly, clean the birthing area, and monitor the mother cat for any signs of distress or complications. Ensure she has proper nutrition and a clean environment.
What are the signs of infection or other health issues in a cat that has retained a placenta?
Watch for fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, foul-smelling discharge, decreased milk production, and signs of pain or discomfort. Seek immediate veterinary care if these symptoms appear.
Conclusion
While it's natural for cats to eat their placentas, it's not essential in a domestic setting. The key is ensuring all placentas are expelled and maintaining a clean environment for the mother and her kittens. Always monitor the mother cat closely after birth and seek veterinary care if you notice any concerning symptoms.
