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My cat's belly is big and leg twitching after birth. More kittens?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed

My cat had kittens and it has been hrs but her belly is still big and her back leg is twitching. Could she still have more babies?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on August 6th, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

She might. If she is laying comfortably, grooming herself and her kittens and NOT having contractions then she may have more later. Cats can delay labor for up to 24 hours. If you are still worried at the 24 hour mark make an appointment with your Vet for a belly X-ray to be sure she is finished.

Good luck!

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on January 16th, 2019
There may be another kitten in there and I would strongly recommend to get in touch with your local veterinarian and discuss the possibility to take an x ray and determine whether she is giving birth to other kittens (there may be more than one).
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Davis
Veterinarian
Published on November 10th, 2018
If there still was a kitten inside she would probably be sick or straining with contractions. Cats can take up to 24 hours between kittens but I’ve never seen them give birth later than that. You may be feeling the intestinal movements when you are touching her belly. I’m sure she’s eating more so these can become more prominent. As long as she’s feeling fine and nursing I don’t think there is anything abnormal going on. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Cleo.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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