How to tell a cat from a tomcat? - briefly
To distinguish between a female cat and a male cat (tom), observe their genital area. Female cats have a smaller, less noticeable opening, while male cats have a larger, more prominent penis sheath that is often visible even when retracted. Additionally, male cats are typically larger in size and have more pronounced facial features compared to females.
How to tell a cat from a tomcat? - in detail
To distinguish between a female cat (queen) and a male cat (tom), one must consider several physical, behavioral, and genetic characteristics.
Physical differences are most evident in mature cats. Males are typically larger than females, with broader heads and shoulders, and more muscular bodies. Female cats have smaller, more delicate features and are generally lighter in weight. The tail is another distinguishing feature; male cats often have thicker, longer tails with a broader base, while female cats' tails tend to be slimmer and shorter.
Behaviorally, tomcats exhibit distinct traits that set them apart from queens. They are known for their territorial marking behavior, which includes spraying urine on vertical surfaces to mark their territory. This is less common in females, who may occasionally mark but do so primarily by rubbing against objects with scent glands located around their head and tail. Additionally, male cats often fight more aggressively with other males, whereas female cats tend to be more social and less aggressive.
Genetic differences also provide clues for identification. Male cats have two copies of the X chromosome (XX), while females have one X and one Y chromosome (XY). This can be determined through genetic testing or by observing the presence of nipples, which are more prominent in female cats due to their potential role in nursing kittens.
In summary, distinguishing between a female cat and a male cat involves examining physical characteristics such as size, head shape, and tail thickness, behavioral traits like marking and aggression, and genetic differences that can be identified through testing or observation of nipples.