Firstly i'd like to say "hi" I've been looking through your messages on the board but have only registered today.

My mothers ragdoll girl is due to give birth this week. This will be Lucy's first litter (and mums first too) She's doing really well, the babies are moving constantly and Lucy seems content to just lie down and rest.

I'd ordered a birthing kit and some Dopram (hoping we won't need it!) so we're all set for the new arrivals. Lucy's temp has dropped a degree today, so it's looking like we're right on track for lil kits shortly. How long before labour starts does the temp drop?

I have been appointed "lead midwife" lol, I've always had animals and have been present for the births of foals and humans ... but cats giving birth is something i've never dealt with.

What can I expect? What are the signs of labour?, how long can she labour before we start thinking "aarrgghhh we need the vet"? How long is the gap between kittens (before there could be a problem)? Do we take the kittens away while Lucy's giving birth to the next or do we leave them with mum? If Lucy doesn't break the membranes / cord herself, how long should we leave her before we assist? I really want to be prepared but am aware that intervention can cause more problems than it solves ... Soooo many questions!!

I suppose what i'm really looking for is for somebody to talk me through the whole process from the start of labour until after delivery (hopefully with healthy strong kits and a happy Lucy).

Hoping you can give me some pointers

Sootisox