She may appear preoccupied, presumably with the physical discomfort of labor, even stepping on the kittens. The interval between birth of each kitten may be as long as 1 hour but is frequently shorter. Consult your veterinarian immediately if you fear that things are not proceeding normally. After delivery of the last kitten, most queens settle back to nurse the kittens. Kittens locate a teat to nurse by pulling with their front legs, paddling with their rear legs and turning their head from side to side.
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.