Expert: Marcia Owen - 6/10/2010

Question
Hi,

My persian cat just gave birth to 4 beautiful kitten.. I noticed that while she was pushing the first baby out, something that seemed to me like a worm came out of her vagina.. it was around 1 inch tall, all white with a dark tip, and it seemed dead.. could that be some intestinal worms?? is it possible for cats to expel worms while giving birth?? this is weird to me because I always de-worm my cat on a regular basis...

Answer
Dear Moe

Congratulations on the birth of 4 kittens.

If it were a worm it would not have come from the vagina but could of course have been pushed out of the anus.  It is not something that I have had any experience of happening and if she has been wormed then it would seem unlikely.  Of course not impossible though.

When it is time to worm the kittens, be sure to have a medication prescribed by the vet and not an over the counter product from a pet shop.  You will then be sure you have effective medication and can do the Mum at the same time.

Regards

Marcia