TL;DR: Green vaginal discharge in a pregnant cat before any kittens are born is a life-threatening emergency indicating placental detachment. Immediate veterinary care is required to save the kittens and ensure the mother's safety.
What does green vaginal discharge in a pregnant cat mean?
Green vaginal discharge in a pregnant cat is often caused by the breakdown of hemoglobin into a pigment called uteroverdin. This occurs when a placenta separates from the uterine wall. While this is a natural part of the birthing process once labor has started, its appearance before any kittens are born is a significant clinical sign that requires immediate attention.
Is green vaginal discharge in my cat a veterinary emergency?
- Urgency Level: High. If your cat is showing green discharge but has not yet delivered a kitten, this is considered a veterinary emergency.
- It typically indicates that at least one kitten's life support system—the placenta—has detached, meaning the kitten is no longer receiving oxygen.
- Without immediate medical intervention, such as an emergency C-section, the kittens and potentially the mother are at high risk.
How can taking a photo of the discharge help my veterinarian?
- A clear photo allows the veterinary team to visually confirm the color, viscosity, and volume of the fluid.
- This helps them determine if the discharge is a normal sign of impending labor or a critical warning sign of dystocia (difficult birth) or fetal distress.
- Providing a visual allows the clinic to prepare the surgical suite and medical team before you even arrive.
Clinical Context (Merck Veterinary Manual)
During normal labor, vaginal discharge can be clear, serous to hemorrhagic, or green (uteroverdin). The normal vaginal discharge at parturition is a dark green color; abnormal color or character warrants immediate attention. However, a purulent vaginal discharge accompanied by signs of systemic illness is abnormal and requires antimicrobial treatment.
Chapter: Reproduction
Source: The Merck Veterinary Manual, 11th Edition (Page 2227)