2. Feline Reproduction Sexual maturity between 6* and 9 months of age Seasonally polyestrous - induced ovulators Ovulation induced by copulation Gestation approximately 66 days

3. Feline Reproduction Feline estrous cycle – Anestrus Absence of cycling activity during short daylight hours – Proestrus Rising concentrations in blood estrogen Lasts 1 to 2 days – Estrus Period of sexual receptivity Frequently vocalize to call males Lordosis Duration ranges from 2 to 19 days when not bred

4. Feline Reproduction – Diestrus Occurs in queens induced to ovulate Postovulatory follicles secrete progesterone for approximately 40 days in a nonpregnant queen – 60 days in a pregnant one – Induction of ovulation Copulation followed by release of GnRH Induces surge of LH resulting in ovulation Maximum LH release requires 8 to 12 copulations Queens in estrus will mate multiple times – 20 to 36 times in 36 hours are common

5. Feline Reproduction Tom reaches sexual maturity around 9 months of age Feline penis has spines Cryptochidism is rare in cats

6. Prevention of Estrous Cycles Preferred method is ovariohysterectomy – When performed prior to puberty, risk of mammary cancer later in life is near zero

7. Prevention of the Estrous Cycle Health benefits greatly outweigh risks Prevents cancer Prevents uterine infection Prevents unwanted pregnancy Prevents mess, odor, and unwelcome visiting males Risk of complications during surgery Slight tendency to gain weight

8. Prevention of Estrous Cycles Ovariohysterectomy – Traditionally performed at 6 months – Earlier programs now perform surgery as young as 8 weeks – Proven to be safe and ensure adopted animals do not perpetuate pet overpopulation Androgens and progesterones – Hormones that can be administered to prevent estrous cycles – Serious potential side effects – Not recommended for routine use

9. Sterilization of Males Castration – Orchiectomy – Neutering of male dogs and cats via surgical removal of the testicles – Bilateral orchiectomy is method of choice Prevents testicular and epididymis disorders Decreases risk of hernias Decreases objectionable behaviors – Traditionally postponed until near puberty – Early programs now available Neuter as young as 8 weeks – Alternative to surgery: injectable

10. http://veterinarymedicine.dvm360.com/vetmed/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/653147 Surgery Alternatives