Now Playing: someone's over-loud motorcycle
Current Mood : slightly shell-shocked
Today got off to a late start. Had some trouble sleeping, so I didn't do the usual grocery run right after Dearest Son's bus left. Stretched out in bed with a book for a bit, intending to have a quick nap.
Velvet didn't see it that way. As is her usual, she jumped up, purring and craving attention. We both soon nodded off- until she made a weird noise. Oh, heck. We've known for about a month that she's pregnant, not fat, but we had no idea when she was due. Looks like today was the day !
I got her onto an old bath towel, and stroked her side while she panted and yowled. Was this her first litter ? Did she know what to do - because I was unprepared ! I thought we had another week or two. She seemed to push a few times, and...kitten ! She did everything she was supposed to do, and for those who haven't seen kittens born, I'll say no more. Everyone else is probably gagging a bit. I moved her to the closet, where I'd begun to set up a towel and fabric nest so she could have peace and privacy...later. I stayed and petted her, just in case.
The rest were almost as easy for her as a sneeze. Her first kitten was all black, the second had her Maine Coon compatible markings, the third was grey and white, and the last two were black and white. The last born has more black than white, it was the only way I could tell ‘em apart. They mewed from their first moments, and they even had tiny claws ready. So sweet ! Within an hour, she'd given birth to all five, and they were clean and drying, and oh, so hungry !
I want to give them at least a week before I take photos. Mamma Velvet's been a great parent, and I made sure she had tuna tonight. She's been very protective, but patient with my constant peering and petting. Dearest Son was thrilled.
A very powerful experience. It's the first time I've ever seen a birth - I didn't even get to see Dearest's. As soon as these sweeties are weaned, Mamma Velvet will have an appointment with the vet, so she can be Miz Velvet again. These kittens are adorable, but so are all kittens, we don't need more.
Oh, and I got to do groceries a bit late - and found a cute little vinyl Snow White doll. 50c, in a grab bag of other toys, at the thrift store next door. She used to be part of a Fisher-Price castle. Just about the right size for Baby Ariel to play with !
That's so cute. I would love to see neborn kittens. I bet they are just so cute and will melt your heart. Give Velvet a kiss on the head for me and tell her "Job well done." 
