Dystocia, or difficult labor, is a concerning issue in the world of pedigree cats, especially for breeders aiming to ensure healthy litters. A recent study sheds light on the incidence of dystocia and the mortality rates of kittens up to 12 weeks in pedigree cats, offering valuable insights for breeders and veterinarians. Conducted by Petra Černá and colleagues, this retrospective study analyzed birth-related statistics from breeders across 29 countries, providing a comprehensive look at trends in feline reproductive health.

Study Overview

This study aimed to establish the incidence of dystocia in pedigree cat breeds and investigate the mortality rates of kittens up to the age of 12 weeks. Data was collected through an online questionnaire completed by 448 breeders who reported on 853 litters and 3,560 live-born kittens. The results highlighted significant breed variation in both dystocia rates and kitten mortality, offering essential information for breeders working with pedigree cats.

Key Findings

1. Incidence of Dystocia
   The study found that 14.9% of litters experienced dystocia that required veterinary intervention. The incidence varied across different breeds, with Cornish Rex cats requiring caesarean sections more frequently than others, but no statistically significant difference between breeds overall. Queens older than 5 years and litters of more than six kittens were less likely to experience dystocia, whereas longer gestation periods were associated with a higher risk of difficult births.

2. Caesarean Section Rates
   A total of 10.7% of litters required a caesarean section, with Cornish Rex cats being the most likely breed to need surgical intervention. This highlights the importance of close monitoring and veterinary support during the birthing process, particularly for breeds that have a higher risk of complications.

3. Kitten Mortality Rates
   The study revealed concerning breed differences in kitten mortality rates up to 12 weeks. Bengal cats had the highest cumulative mortality rate at 23.4%, while Ragdoll and Norwegian Forest Cats showed significantly lower mortality rates. These findings suggest that genetic factors and breed-specific health concerns may play a role in the survival of kittens post-birth.

4. Impact of Birth Defects
   Birth defects were noted as a significant factor affecting kitten mortality, especially in cases where caesarean sections were required. This reinforces the importance of genetic screening and careful breeding practices to minimize the risk of congenital defects that can impact the health of kittens.

Clinical Implications

The study's findings underscore the need for careful monitoring during pregnancy and labor in pedigree cats. Breeders should be aware of the increased risks of dystocia, particularly in certain breeds and queens over the age of 5 years. The study also highlights the importance of timely veterinary intervention, particularly for litters with more than six kittens or extended gestation periods, to prevent complications.

For breeders of Bengal and other breeds with higher mortality rates, the findings suggest that additional care and attention may be required to improve kitten survival rates. Genetic testing and careful breeding practices are crucial for reducing the incidence of birth defects and other health complications that may contribute to higher mortality.

Conclusion

Dystocia and kitten mortality are significant concerns for pedigree cat breeders, with breed-specific differences playing a key role in the incidence and outcomes. This study provides valuable data for breeders, emphasizing the importance of monitoring queen health, gestation length, and litter size to reduce the risks associated with difficult births. The study also highlights the need for continued research into breed-specific health issues to improve the overall health and survival of kittens in pedigree breeds.

Read full study here: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1098612X241284766