What should you know about miscarriage in cats?

A pregnant cat may lose one or more developing kittens without obvious signs, or may show vaginal discharge, abdominal discomfort, reduced appetite, weakness, fever, or changes in behaviour. A lost fetus may be passed, reabsorbed, or remain in the uterus, so seeing no tissue does not rule out pregnancy loss.

Causes can include infection, hormonal problems, illness, trauma, nutritional problems, or fetal abnormalities. Only a veterinarian can assess the cat and distinguish miscarriage from labour problems, uterine infection, or another emergency.

Call a veterinarian promptly and describe the cat’s pregnancy stage if known, discharge, appetite, activity, pain, and any medication or possible toxin exposure. Keep her indoors, quiet, warm, and separated from other animals while arranging care. Do not give human medicines or attempt to remove tissue.

A veterinarian may examine her and use ultrasound or other tests. Treatment depends on the cause and may include supportive care, medication, treatment for infection, or a procedure if the uterus is not clearing safely. Human miscarriage treatments are not appropriate substitutes for veterinary care.

Go to an emergency veterinarian for heavy bleeding, foul-smelling discharge, repeated straining without delivering a kitten, severe pain, collapse, breathing difficulty, marked weakness, fever, or refusal of food and water. A cat that seems suddenly much worse should not be monitored at home.

Ask whether the pregnancy loss is confirmed, whether any fetus or tissue remains, what tests are needed, how pain and infection will be managed, and what signs require an immediate return. Ask how to support recovery and whether future pregnancies should be delayed or avoided.