1. Drop in Rectal Temperature

This is the most reliable indicator of when labour will occur within the next 12 to 24 hours. A dog’s normal body temperature ranges from 38.3°C to 39.2°C. When the levels of the hormone progesterone drop significantly prior to giving birth, the dog’s body temperature will drop to below 37.8°C, signalling that labour will occur within the next 24 hours.

From day 56, begin to take your dam’s temperature twice a day. Use a digital rectal thermometer to take her temperature and write down the readings. As soon as you feel a drop in her temperature below 37.8°C, prepare your whelping area for her newborns.

Note: Because cats do not exhibit such a drop in temperature as readily as dogs, breeders of cats should rely more upon the behavioral cues of their queens to indicate when the kittens will be born.

2. Restlessness and Nesting Behaviour

One of the earliest signs of pregnancy is a sudden increase in restlessness. The dam may pace, circle, dig at the whelping box or attempt to sleep in different positions to find the most comfortable position to prepare for the arrival of her young.

Some dams become very clingy to their owner, while others become very withdrawn and seek solitude. Both of these behaviours are normal during pregnancy.

3. Loss of Appetite

Most females will refuse food in the 12-24 hours prior to the onset of labour.  Should your dam refuse meals in this time period, note this behaviour.  Do not attempt to force feed your dam.  A light meal may be offered if she displays any interest in eating.

4. Vomiting or Nausea

Some dams will “vomit” or appear nauseous during the early stage of one labour – exhibiting behaviors like lip licking, drooling or repeated swallowing. This is caused by the hormonal and uterine changes that occur when a dam is in labour. Occasional vomiting is normal but if a dam is vomiting often it is a signal to contact your veterinarian.

5. Visible Shivering or Trembling

Shivering is common in early labour even if the environmental temperature is low. This is due to the hormonal changes that occur in the body during early labour. Ensure the whelping area is warm and draught-free, and provide reassurance to the bitch – avoid fussing too much over her.

6. Vaginal Discharge

A small amount of clear or cloudy mucus may exit the female as the plug passes. This is normal. However, any green, black or foul smelling discharge before the first puppy or kitten is born is a veterinary emergency. Contact your veterinarian.

7. Seeking Seclusion

Many dams become secretive as the labour approaches. Your female may seek out a quiet corner of the pen, behind the furnishings, or even into her whelping box. Allow her to have this quiet environment for labour; limit her visitors and noise in the area and avoid her if she becomes stressed out by your presence. Simply be near her, but give her the space to have her labour.

8. Visible Abdominal Contractions

As stage one progresses into stage two (active delivery), you will begin to see your dam straining and pushing visibly. This should be followed by the delivery of the first offspring within 30-60 minutes of straining beginning. If a mother has been straining for more than 60 minutes without delivering a puppy or kitten, call your veterinarian immediately.