What Happens if a Cat Retains the Placenta? Can it be Absorbed?

It's possible for a cat's body to absorb a retained placenta, but this isn't guaranteed for all cats. If a cat doesn't naturally pass or absorb the placenta within a reasonable timeframe, it's crucial to seek veterinary care promptly. Retained placental tissue can lead to serious health complications, potentially endangering the cat's well-being and even her life.

While a cat's body may sometimes reabsorb the placenta, delayed expulsion can lead to severe infections, including metritis (uterine inflammation). These complications can pose a significant risk to the cat's health and survival. Therefore, if you suspect your cat has retained her placenta, do not hesitate to get her to a vet.

What to do When a Newborn Kitten is Still Attached to the Placenta

Newborn kittens are typically born still connected to the placenta. Usually, the mother cat will instinctively lick and consume the placenta and clean the kitten. However, if the mother cat doesn't exhibit this behavior, you must intervene. Wearing gloves, gently detach the placenta from the kitten to avoid suffocation. Then, tie off the umbilical cord with string and cut it. Afterwards, use a dry paper towel to rub the kitten dry until it can breathe independently. This is a critical step for ensuring the kitten’s survival.

Signs of Placental Retention in Cats

Initially, a cat with retained placental tissue might exhibit persistent straining. Over time, if the issue is not addressed, this can develop into conditions like pyometra (uterine infection with pus accumulation) or endometritis (inflammation of the uterine lining). These can cause symptoms like an enlarged abdomen, lethargy, loss of appetite, and fever. In severe cases, retained placenta and associated infections can be fatal for the mother cat. If you suspect your cat has not passed her placenta, consult a veterinarian promptly. They may recommend an ultrasound to confirm the diagnosis and then either administer oxytocin to induce contractions or, if necessary, perform surgery to remove the retained placental tissue.Follow us for updates:Pet Training