Gestation In Dogs and Cats

Oct 26, 2011

Fertilization takes place in the fallopian tube between the ovary and the uterus for 7 days after the breeding. Once the egg is fertilized, it moves to the uterus where it implants into the uterine wall and grows for about 8 weeks.
If one pup implants on day 1 and another on day 7, the day 1 pup will be full term and the day 7 pup will be premature because it had 1 week (equivalent to a human being born at 7 ½ - 8 months) less time growing in the uterus.
That is why a “runt” of the litter can become the biggest adult. It had all the genetic make-up to grow large but got off to a slow start because it had a premature birth.
The premature pup will be weaker at birth and may require assistance nursing. It must be watched carefully to be sure it breathes normally.
There is a condition called fading puppy/kitten syndrome that causes death anytime from immediately after birth until 12 weeks of age. Anywhere from 10% to as high as 40% of all newborns die during that time. Again, survival of the fittest.

Birth:

The birthing process usually lasts from 3 -12 hours but can last from 12 – 24 hours especially with the first litter.
There are three stages to birthing which are as follows:

Stage one is when the cervix starts to dilate and uterus prepares for delivery. The mother may pant, shiver and be restless and unsettled. Contractions are occurring but are not noticeable to the owner.
Stage two is when the puppies/kittens are born. This stage usually lasts 3 -12 hours but can last from 12-24 hours especially for the first litter. Puppies/kittens should be born every 20-30 minutes, but in some mothers, there may be 1-2 hours between births. Sometimes the uterus will become fatigued and the mother may rest for several hours between births that is why some deliveries can last up to 24 hours.
Stage three is passage of the placentas. This usually happens after each birth but sometimes two pups/kittens are born then the placentas pass. Count the number of placentas passed to be sure that there is a placenta for each puppy/kitten that has been born.

The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) adhere to the highest quality of standards, which help ensure the best care for your pet.

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Gestation In Dogs and Cats

Oct 26, 2011

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