The first and most obvious way to tell the sex of a cat is by observing its external genitalia. To properly observe these, the cat needs to be in a relaxed state and comfortable with its surroundings. Firstly, lift the cat’s tail and look for the presence of a genital opening. Both male and female cats have this opening, but it looks different in both sexes. In males, the opening is located directly below the anus and is thinner in comparison to females. In contrast, female cats have a more significant and rounded genital opening located closer to the base of the tail.
The next step is to examine the distance between the cat’s anus and genital opening. In male cats, the distance between the anus and genital opening is more significant than in females. This distance is known as the anogenital distance and is generally three times longer in male cats than in females.
Another way of determining the gender of a cat is by examining their behavior traits. Male cats are often more territorial and have a higher tendency to mark their territory by spraying urine. They tend to be more aggressive and may frequently indulge in rough play. In contrast, female cats are known to be more affectionate and are considered to have a more laid-back temperament. In addition, female cats tend to be more prone to meowing and growling during their mating periods.
In some cases, physical and behavioral traits may not be enough to determine the sex of a cat. Some cats may have been declawed or neutered/spayed, leading to the removal of any visible external genitalia. In such cases, it is best to consult a veterinarian, who will be able to determine the cat’s gender by conducting a physical exam or through blood tests.
In conclusion, while determining a cat’s gender may seem like a challenging task, it is relatively simple once you know what to look for. By observing the external genitalia, distance between the anus and genital opening, and behavior traits; it is easy to identify a cat as either male or female. If in doubt, consulting a veterinarian is always the best option, as they have the necessary knowledge and expertise to determine the gender of your feline friend. Knowing the gender of your cat can help you provide more individualized care and training, leading to a stronger bond between you and your furry companion.