Milk production is stimulated by rhythmic kneading of a kitten's front paws. This kneading behavior continues in adult cats and is associated with contentment. Like the queen, the bitch gives little attention to her litter until the last pup is delivered . Puppies emerge at intervals of about 30 minutes, but this may take as long as 2-3 hours . Unnecessary intrusions can interrupt labor and should be avoided.
Puppies stimulate milk flow by pushing their muzzle into the area surrounding the teat.
For the first several weeks, the bitch and queen lick the anogenital region of each pup or kitten to simulate urination and defecation. In orphaned puppies and kittens, this must be stimulated by human caretakers. Ask your veterinarian about the special needs of orphaned newborn pets . The mother normally ingests her newborns' waste to keep the den clean . Young pups and juvenile dogs may begin to eat their feces if fecal matter is not removed from the area by the owner.