My cavalier girl is on day 55. Should I gently wash her underneath around her teats etc. with mild antiseptic before delivery?

I would wash her, but not with antiseptic, just a mild shampoo and rinse will be enough :) :)

Do you have the Book of the Bitch??  I also recommend The Whelping and Rearing of Puppies by Muriel P Lee they are available in Pets at Home and online :)  They have the answers to any questions you may have and also help you recognise when problems are arising that need urgent Veterinary treatment.

And if you join the board there is someone around at most times - just for reassurance.

The Book of the Bitch recommends shaving them underneath too, I think. Margaret Workman's book The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and Sheila Smith's book Cavalier King Charles Spaniels Today also have chapters on breeding Cavs. Let us know how it goes - I have 2 Cavs, and might breed from my bitch if she is good enough when she is old enough!

Thank for the replies. We are now on day 56 and she has gone off her food and is very quiet. I have washed her gently as suggested with mild shampoo and she has already been shaved from when she had a scan.

We'll keep our paws crossed! :-)