EN
Distocia (difficult parturition) in small animals is a common problem in veterinary practice. In such cases immediate, professional help is required. Causes of distocia can be classified as maternal (absolute narrowing of the birth canal, uterine inertia or too strong uterine contractions, pelvic obstructions like tumors, abscesses or hematomas) or fetal (absolute fetal oversize, simultaneous impaction of fetuses from uterine horns into the body of the uterus, monstrosities, etc.). An owner or inexperienced veterinarian can contribute or even be the reason of difficult parturition. The authors describe the case of distocia in a cat caused by hydrocephalus in the kitten. This kind of monstrosity occurs extremely rarely in queens (female cats). The fetus is unable to move down the birth canal due to an oversized head and delivery is ceased. There is only one possible therapeutic procedure in this case: cesarean section. The majority of veterinarians think that a cesarean section in small animals should be performed in the case of any prolonged delivery regardless of the reason. The priority is to rescue fetuses as well as keeping the female in good condition (which deteriorates in the course of prolonged labor). Unfortunately, the majority the causes of distocia cannot be prevented. A basic knowledge concerning the normal birth process and a careful monitoring of animal behavior by the owner will help to detect problems early and get prompt veterinary assistance. This will give the owner and the female the best chance of delivering live healthy kittens.