How to tell a male cat from a female cat by their genitals? - briefly
To determine if a cat is male or female by examining its genitals, look at the distance between the anus and the genital opening. In males, this distance is significantly greater, typically around 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm), while in females, the openings are much closer together, usually less than half an inch (1 cm).
How to tell a male cat from a female cat by their genitals? - in detail
Distinguishing between a male and female cat by examining their genitals requires careful observation and understanding of the differences in their anatomy.
For male cats, the most prominent feature is the presence of the penis. In an adult male cat, the penis is typically visible and protrudes from the body. It has a distinctive shape with a rounded tip and is usually pink or red in color. Additionally, males have testicles located behind the penis within the scrotum. The scrotum appears as a small pouch of skin that contains the testicles. In some cases, especially in neutered males, the testicles may not be visible due to their removal during the neutering process.
In contrast, female cats have a more discreet genital area. The most notable feature is the vulva, which appears as a small slit or opening on the underside of the cat's body, just below the tail. The vulva may be slightly swollen and red during estrus (heat), indicating that the female cat is ready for mating. Female cats do not have external testicles or a penis. Instead, their reproductive organs are located internally, including the ovaries and uterus.
To summarize, male cats can be identified by the presence of the penis and testicles within the scrotum, while female cats are characterized by the vulva, which is a small slit or opening on the underside of the body. Neutered males may lack visible testicles, but the absence of a vulva remains a clear indicator of their sex. It is essential to handle cats gently and with care when examining their genitals to ensure their comfort and well-being.