my cat gave birth last may (she pregnant again, also due in may). it was the first time for both of us. i was their from the first contraction to an hour and a half after the last kit was born and it was a wonderful experience. i didn't have much, but what i did have was :

lots of T towels
paper tissue
antibac hand gel
lots of coffee

tbh, i didn't even think about any of the other stuff you guys have, like spare box, always thought that the mother will be happier if she has her new kittens with her, rather than having them put into a seperate box whilst she delivering, although i did confine the new borns to one corner whilst the mother was cleaning the newest kitten! the mother just seemed to get on with it, without any help from me, and i thought that was the best for her, but i was their, ready to help in any way i coould, had she needed me.

this time, i think i shall be a bit more prepaired lol, with the sissors etc.

this has been very helpful thread, and i want to thank all involved!