Caesarean Sections:
Special Deliveries

Babies have a habit of arriving at 3am. Luckily, so do we. Most dogs and cats give birth without any help at all, but sometimes mum and her babies need us, and fast. Here's what you need to know about caesareans, whether planned or in an emergency.

The 30-second version

1. A caesarean (C-section) is surgery to deliver puppies or kittens through the tummy.
2. Some breeds are more likely to need one, so planning ahead helps.
3. Know the signs of labour problems and call us without delay.
4. We're open 24 hours a day, every day, for planned and emergency caesareans.
5. Most mums are back on their feet and feeding their babies within hours.

When is a caesarean needed?

A caesarean may be needed when a mum can't give birth naturally, or it's safer not to try. Common reasons include:

• A puppy or kitten that's too big or in an awkward position
• A narrow birth canal, which is common in some breeds
• Labour that has stopped or isn't progressing (sometimes called 'uterine inertia')
• A mum who's unwell or exhausted
• Breed-related risks. Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Boston Terriers and some other flat-faced breeds often need a planned caesarean.

Planned or emergency?

Planned (elective) caesareans are booked in advance for mums at high risk, based on her breed, history and pregnancy. We'll plan the timing carefully, often using blood tests to check that the puppies are ready to arrive. Planning means a calmer day for everyone.

Emergency caesareans happen when labour doesn't go to plan. Because we're open 24 hours a day, every day, our team is always ready to help.

Call us straight away if: Your pet has been straining strongly for 20 to 30 minutes with no baby; it's been more than two hours between babies and you think there are more to come; there's green or black discharge with no baby following soon after; a baby is visibly stuck; or mum is very distressed, weak or collapsed. Phone 01843 808344. We're open 24 hours a day.

Did you know? A dog's temperature often drops to around 37°C about 12 to 24 hours before labour starts. Taking her temperature twice a day in the last week of pregnancy can give you a useful heads-up that things are about to kick off!

What happens on the day?

• Assessment: we examine mum and may take an X-ray or scan to check the babies and their position.
• Anaesthetic: we use an anaesthetic plan designed for mums and babies, keeping them as safe and alert as possible.
• Surgery: the babies are delivered through the tummy and our team is ready to rub, warm and check every single one.
• Wake up and meet the family: once mum is awake, we'll help her settle, and her babies can start feeding as soon as it's safe.
• Home time: most mums go home the same day with their litter, plus pain relief and aftercare instructions.

Aftercare at home

• Keep mum and babies warm, quiet and together.
• Check her wound daily for redness, swelling or discharge.
• Make sure every baby is feeding and staying warm.
• Bring her back for her post-op checks.
• Call us if she seems unwell, stops eating, or isn't interested in her babies.

A note for breeders

The Kennel Club won't register a further litter from a dam who has already had two litters delivered by caesarean, except for scientifically proven welfare reasons. When you register a litter, you agree that vets may report caesareans to the Kennel Club. We're happy to talk through what this means for your breeding plans.

Your questions answered

Expecting a litter? Talk to us early about a birth plan, and save our number in your phone today.

Call 01843 808344