How to check if a cat is a boy or girl? - briefly
To determine the gender of a cat, observe its genital area. Male cats have a visible penis and testicles, while female cats do not.
How to check if a cat is a boy or girl? - in detail
To determine whether a cat is male or female, one can follow these steps:
-
Observation of Physical Characteristics:
- Male Cats (Tomcats): Generally, males are larger and more muscular than females. They also have broader heads and more prominent facial features, such as thicker necks and wider chests.
- Female Cats: Females tend to be smaller and slimmer. Their faces are often more delicate with narrower muzzles and less prominent chins.
-
Genitalia Inspection:
- Male Genitals: The male genital area appears as a small, vertical slit. When the cat is in heat or excited, the penis may protrude from this opening.
- Female Genitals: The female genital area looks like a small, horizontal oval or a straight line. It is located between the anus and the urethral opening.
-
Behavioral Cues:
- Spraying: Unneutered male cats often spray urine to mark their territory, which females rarely do.
- Vocalization: Males are more likely to vocalize loudly, especially during mating season, whereas female calls are usually softer and more frequent.
-
Professional Examination:
- For a definitive answer, consult a veterinarian. A professional can perform a thorough examination that may include palpation of the abdomen to feel for testicles in male cats or to check if the cat is pregnant or in heat.
-
DNA Testing:
- In cases where physical characteristics are ambiguous, DNA testing can provide a definitive answer about the cat's gender. This method is more expensive and less commonly used but ensures accuracy.