Difficult Labour in Cats and Dogs: Signs of Dystocia and Birthing Emergencies

The signs of difficult labour can vary. Your dog or cat may appear restless or uncomfortable, have strong contractions without producing a puppy or kitten, or seem to stop making progress during labour. 

Other signs can include: 

• Persistent straining without the birth of a puppy or kitten 

• Weak or ineffective contractions 

• A prolonged delay between the birth of babies 

• A puppy or kitten visible at the vulva but not being delivered 

• Unusual vaginal discharge or bleeding 

• Signs of pain, distress or exhaustion 

• Weakness, collapse or appearing unwell 

Any concerns about your dog or cat during labour should be discussed with a veterinary surgeon promptly. 

Difficult labour can quickly become an emergency for both the mother and her unborn babies. Contact a vet immediately if your dog or cat appears to be in significant pain or distress, becomes weak or unwell, or you are concerned that labour is not progressing normally. 

Seek urgent veterinary advice if: 

• Your dog or cat has been straining strongly for 20–30 minutes without producing a puppy or kitten 

• A puppy or kitten is visible but not being delivered 

• More than two hours have passed between the birth of babies and you believe there are more still to come 

• You see a green or dark discharge before the first puppy or kitten is born 

• There is heavy bleeding 

• Your pet appears exhausted, very unwell or collapses 

Even if none of these signs are present, complications can still occur. If you have any concerns about your dog or cat during labour, or simply feel that something is not right, contact your veterinary practice for advice. 

Your vet will assess your dog or cat to determine why labour is not progressing normally and whether the mother or her babies are in distress. This may involve a physical examination and, where appropriate, an internal examination. Your veterinary surgeon may also recommend imaging, such as ultrasound or X-rays, to assess the number, size and position of the unborn babies and check their wellbeing. 

Blood tests may sometimes be needed to identify problems affecting the mother's ability to labour normally. These findings will help your veterinary surgeon decide on the safest and most appropriate treatment. 

Treatment will depend on the cause of the difficult labour and the condition of the mother and her babies. In some cases, medical treatment may be used to support or improve contractions. If a puppy or kitten is obstructing the birth canal, your veterinary surgeon may be able to assist with delivery. However, if labour is not progressing, the babies are in distress, or there is a risk to the mother, a Caesarean section may be necessary. 

Your dog or cat may also need supportive treatment, particularly if she is exhausted, dehydrated or unwell. 

Prompt treatment is important and can significantly improve the chances of a successful outcome for both the mother and her babies. 

It is not always possible to prevent difficult labour, but careful planning before breeding can help reduce the risk of complications. Breeding animals should be in good health and an appropriate body condition. Some animals may have an increased risk of dystocia because of their breed, size, previous breeding history or underlying health problems. 

If you are planning to breed your dog or cat, speak to your veterinary surgeon beforehand. They can advise on any individual risk factors and help you prepare for pregnancy and birth. 

Knowing the expected signs of normal labour and having a plan for contacting a veterinary surgeon in an emergency can also help ensure that problems are recognised and treated promptly. 

The outlook following difficult labour depends on the underlying cause, how quickly treatment is provided and the condition of the mother and her babies. 

Many dogs and cats make a good recovery with prompt and appropriate treatment. However, dystocia can be serious, particularly if labour is prolonged or treatment is delayed, and complications can sometimes affect the mother, her babies or both. 

Your veterinary surgeon will discuss your pet's individual outlook with you and provide advice about her recovery, caring for the newborn puppies or kittens and any future breeding considerations.