How to determine the sex of a cat? - briefly
To determine the sex of a cat, examine its genital area. Male cats have a small, pinkish-red penis and scrotum, while female cats have a vulva with no visible external genitalia.
How to determine the sex of a cat? - in detail
To determine the sex of a cat, one must closely examine its external genitalia and secondary sexual characteristics. The process is relatively straightforward and can be done at home with careful observation.
Firstly, position the cat on its back comfortably. Gently lift its tail to expose the anal region. In male cats, you will notice a small opening just in front of the anus. This is known as the urethral opening or the penis. Male cats also have a distinct scrotum located between their hind legs, which contains the testicles. The scrotum may be more pronounced in some breeds than others.
In female cats, the genital area appears smooth and lacks the visible penis or scrotum present in males. Instead, there are two small openings close together—one for urination (the urethra) and one slightly higher up for mating (the vagina). These openings may be difficult to see without parting the fur around the area. Additionally, female cats have nipples that are more prominent than those of male cats.
It is important to note that determining the sex of a kitten can be more challenging due to their smaller size and less developed genitalia. In these cases, it may be necessary to wait until the kitten is older or consult with a veterinarian for a professional examination.
Overall, by carefully examining the cat's external genitalia and secondary characteristics, you can accurately determine its sex.