TL;DR: A retained placenta occurs when birthing membranes remain inside the mother cat, potentially leading to life-threatening infections within 24 hours. You should contact your veterinarian immediately if the number of expelled placentas does not match the number of kittens delivered.
What does it mean if my cat has a retained placenta?
During the birthing process, each kitten is supported by its own placenta, which provides oxygen and nutrients. Usually, the placenta is expelled shortly after the kitten is born. A retained placenta occurs when one or more of these membranes stay inside the mother cat's uterus after delivery is complete. This is a condition that requires careful monitoring to prevent serious health complications.
Is a retained placenta a medical emergency for my cat?
- The urgency level for a retained placenta is categorized as Medium; while not always an immediate crisis, it cannot be ignored.
- If the placenta remains in the uterus for more than 24 hours, it can lead to a severe uterine infection known as metritis, which can become life-threatening.
- You should contact your veterinarian for advice if the number of placentas does not match the number of kittens delivered.
How does sending a photo help a triage assistant assess my cat?
- Providing a photo of the placentas that have already been passed, as well as any vaginal discharge, is incredibly helpful for a triage assistant.
- A clear photo allows a professional to assess the color and consistency of the discharge and verify the health of the expelled tissue.
- This visual information helps determine if the situation is progressing normally or if your cat needs to be seen by a vet immediately for medical intervention.
Clinical Context (Merck Veterinary Manual)
In healthy queens with nursing neonates, routine postpartum administration of oxytocin or antibiotics is unnecessary unless the placenta has been retained. Palpation and, if necessary, radiographs should be used to determine that all kittens have been delivered. The chorionic surface of the expelled membranes should be examined carefully to ensure complete expulsion, as retention of even a portion of the membranes can lead to metritis or peritonitis. Oxytocin (5 U, IM, every 2-3 hr) can be administered beginning 3-4 hours after parturition if the membranes have not been expelled, and calcium supplementation may be beneficial. Manual removal of retained membranes carries the risk of uterine damage or prolapse and is not recommended beyond gentle tugging to displace already loosened membranes. In cases of prolonged retention, antimicrobials should be administered prophylactically.
Chapter: Reproduction, Infectious Disease
Source: The Merck Veterinary Manual, 11th Edition (Page 1382)