A cesarean (C-section) is a surgical procedure in which unborn kittens are surgically removed from the uterus. It is performed when an animal is having problems while delivering the newborns and is typically an emergency (not an elective) surgery. For certain breeds prone to dystocia (difficult birth), such as Persians, a cesarean may be planned.

Sometimes, the pet can also be spayed following the surgical removal of the kittens. This prevents future pregnancies and eliminates the risk of future cesarean surgeries.

Diagnosis

Determining the need for a cesarean requires a few tests. Your veterinarian may perform digital vaginal palpation to evaluate maternal pelvic abnormalities, the size of the fetus and to attempt manual removal without surgery. If the kittens are too large or the pelvic canal too narrow for passage, a cesarean is recommended.

Abdominal radiographs may also be done to evaluate the size, location, and number of kittens in the uterus. Abdominal ultrasound examination may be done to evaluate the viability of the kittens. If these tests indicate that the kittens are too large or are in distress, an emergency cesarean would be recommended.

Surgery

Surgery is the final step after medical management has failed to assist the pregnant pet to deliver naturally. The mother must be carefully anesthetized in order to perform surgery safely while minimally affecting the unborn kittens.

The surgery is performed through an incision in the cat's abdomen and the surviving kittens are allowed to nurse normally as soon as the mother is out of surgery.

Home Care and Prevention

After your pet returns from the hospital, she will need to be kept quiet indoors while she heals (approximately two weeks). It is important that you prevent excessive activity and "rough-housing."

The incision should be monitored daily for signs of excessive redness, swelling, or discharge. Do not allow your cat to lick or chew at the incision, and if this is impossible, you should obtain an "Elizabethan" collar that is placed around the neck to prevent access to the incision.

Some vaginal discharge is expected for a few weeks after pregnancy and C-section.

The only way to prevent the need for C-section is by avoiding pregnancy in your pet. Early spaying of your animal will make it impossible for her to become pregnant.