Delivery and Cesarean Section in Dogs and Cats
Deliveries and Cesarean Section – When Nature Needs Help
Delivery in dogs and cats usually proceeds without major complications, but when things don’t go according to plan, quick assessment and timely intervention can save both the newborns and the mother.
In veterinary practice, monitoring pregnancy and assessing labor are crucial for deciding on a cesarean section — a procedure that can be planned or emergency.
At our clinics in Novi Sad and Veternik, we take every pregnancy seriously because we know every case is different. We provide owners with clear guidelines, regular monitoring, and readiness to respond at the right moment.
Monitoring Pregnancy – How Do We Know When It’s Time?
The final stage of pregnancy is the most sensitive period. During the last 10 days of pregnancy, we advise owners to measure the female’s rectal temperature morning and evening. This helps determine her physiological temperature during pregnancy (usually between 37.8°C and 39°C).
On the day the temperature suddenly drops by about one degree, we expect labor to begin within 12 to 24 hours.
Progesterone Level Check and Ultrasound Examination
In case of uncertainty, we can additionally measure blood progesterone levels or perform an ultrasound to assess fetal vitality – especially the puppies’ heart rate, which can indicate if they are stressed and if labor is near.
What Do We Expect From the Owner?
A responsible owner is our most important partner. Owners should monitor their pet’s behavior and symptoms that indicate the start of labor – especially rupture of the water bag, which is often mistakenly interpreted as the pet having “urinated herself.” The difference is that the fluid has no urine smell.
Waiting Time After Water Bag Rupture (Regarding Cesarean Indication)
After the water bag breaks, if within one to two hours the first newborn is not delivered, this is a clear indication for a cesarean section.
Emergency Situations and Conditions Requiring Cesarean Section
A cesarean section is a serious surgical procedure performed under general anesthesia. At our clinics, it is carried out with:
- experienced surgical team
- monitoring of vital functions during the procedure
- care of newborn puppies or kittens immediately after removal
- monitoring the mother’s recovery after waking from anesthesia
After surgery, owners receive clear instructions on feeding, nursing, monitoring, and behavior. If needed, we provide additional check-ups over the following days.
Contact Us for Safe Assistance Regarding Delivery
If you are near the end of pregnancy and have doubts, don’t wait for a problem to occur – contact us immediately. At our clinics in Novi Sad and Veternik, we help animals become parents safely every day – whether naturally or surgically.
Delivery is natural – but sometimes nature needs help. We are here to provide it.