Umbilical cord entanglement in neonatal kittens: A case report

Abstract

Umbilical cord entanglement in neonatal kittens is a rare but potentially fatal condition requiring prompt intervention. This report describes a case involving four 3-day-old kittens born to a primiparous domestic short-haired queen. The umbilical cords of three kittens were entwined with the necrosed metatarsus of a deceased littermate. Surgical removal of the entangled cords was performed using a BP blade, followed by antiseptic treatment with povidone-iodine. One kitten developed an umbilical hernia and died the following day, while the remaining two recovered and resumed nursing. This case highlights the importance of early detection and breeder education to reduce neonatal mortality.