Pregnancy Monitoring and Birth Planning
At our Tatlıkuyu, Gebze clinic serving Darıca, Çayırova and Kocaeli, pregnancy in cats and dogs is confirmed by ultrasound at 25 to 30 days, when heartbeats and placental structures are assessed. After day 45, plain radiography reliably shows litter size and skeletal development for birth planning.
Energy and protein requirements rise over the final three weeks, so nutrition is adjusted accordingly. A mild drop in body temperature, nest building and restlessness signal approaching labour, and the owner is briefed in advance on the whelping box, a quiet environment and the emergency contact plan.
- Ultrasound: pregnancy confirmation at 25 to 30 days
- Radiography: litter size and skeletal detail after day 45
- Mother and newborn check within the first 24 hours
Dystocia and Pyometra: Presentations That Cannot Wait
Strong straining for more than two hours, a visible puppy in the birth canal, green-black discharge or a delay beyond 24 hours indicate dystocia. Oxytocin is never given blindly in these cases; the birth canal is assessed and radiography performed first.
Pyometra is an emergency that typically follows oestrus and presents with fever, anorexia, increased drinking and discharge. Diagnosis combines ultrasound and blood work, and treatment is surgical once the patient is stabilised.
Related Clinical Procedures & Health Guides
| Presentation | Diagnostic Method | Timing | Approach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pregnancy confirmation | Ultrasound (day 25 – 30) | Scheduled visit | Monitoring and nutrition plan |
| Dystocia | Radiography, canal examination | Emergency | Fluid support, surgery where required |
| Pyometra | Ultrasound, CBC, biochemistry | Emergency | Surgery after stabilisation |
| Mastitis | Mammary examination, milk culture | Urgent review | Analgesia, antibiogram-guided therapy |
| Post-partum haemorrhage | Clinical examination, CBC | Emergency | Fluids and surgical control |
| Pseudopregnancy | History, ultrasound | Scheduled visit | Behavioural and dietary management |
Clinical Pathway
- Gestational age and previous litter history are recorded.
- Ultrasound and radiography where indicated assess the litter.
- Labour is monitored, and the emergency protocol activates on delay or abnormal discharge.
- Mother and newborns are checked, with feeding and lactation follow-up planned.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what day can pregnancy be seen on ultrasound?
Gestational sacs may be visible at 18 to 20 days, but reliable confirmation and heartbeat assessment are best at 25 to 30 days. Scanning earlier can produce a false negative result.
Can I plan a home birth?
Uncomplicated pregnancies can be planned at home provided a prior check has been done, litter size is known and an emergency contact plan is ready. With straining beyond two hours or any delay, come to the clinic without waiting.
Is loss of appetite and increased drinking after oestrus normal?
No, that pattern raises concern for pyometra. Discharge may be absent while pus accumulates in the uterus, so ultrasound and blood work should be arranged without delay.
The information on this page is for general guidance and does not replace a physical examination.