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My cat had a stillborn kitten, but no placenta. What should I do?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | 1 year and 2 months old | 4 lbs

my cat just gave birth to a dead cat , and the placenta came out. however, yesterday she gave birth to a dead cat with no placenta. did the placenta come out with this cat? as some extra bloody liquid did come out.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on May 18th, 2018

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

The placenta can be passed before, after or with the kitten. Sometimes animals eat the placenta before we notice. I would assume it passed. If she isn't eating, lethargic or has a fever she should be seen by a Vet. I highly recommend doing so regardless to see how many more kittens are left and discuss spaying her in the next 4-6 weeks before she comes in to heat again.

I wish you the best!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Laura Johnson VMD
Veterinarian
Published on September 2nd, 2018
Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

It isn't unusual for you not to see the placenta. It can come out later or with another kitten. A lot of the time the mother eats it before you even see it. Cats can delay labor for 24 hours, so it isn't unusual for a long time to pass between kittens. I am glad the one is going well. If Hatchet is eating and drinking and doing fine just give her time and some space. Check on her every few hours.

Good luck!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on August 11th, 2017
If the other kittens came out uneventfully then you have nothing to worry about. Cats do not deliver a separate placenta like people do, everything comes out in the sac that surrounds the kitten. If by chance something did get left behind in the uterus you would notice discharge for several days after the birth. If your mama cat is acting normal, eating, and nursing her kittens she is probably fine. Congats on your new kittens!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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