What does a cat have that a female cat doesn't? - briefly
The primary distinction between a male cat and a female cat lies in their reproductive anatomy. Male cats possess testes, which are responsible for producing sperm and testosterone, whereas female cats do not have this anatomical feature.
What does a cat have that a female cat doesn't? - in detail
The primary distinction between a male cat and a female cat lies in their reproductive anatomy and the associated physiological features. Male cats possess external genitalia that are absent in females, specifically the testes, which produce sperm and testosterone. These testes are located within the scrotal sacs, which are visible as two small, pendulous structures beneath the anus. The presence of testes is a clear, defining characteristic that male cats have, whereas female cats lack these organs entirely.
In addition to the external reproductive organs, male cats typically have a penile structure that is not present in females. The penile opening, or os penis, is located within the cloacal area and is usually less conspicuous compared to the vulva of female cats. Male cats also have a prostate gland, which is situated near the bladder and contributes to seminal fluid production, a feature absent in females. These internal reproductive organs, including the testes and prostate, are exclusive to males and distinguish them from their female counterparts.
Females, on the other hand, are characterized by their reproductive tract, which includes the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, and a vulva. The ovaries produce eggs and secrete hormones such as estrogen and progesterone, which regulate the estrous cycle and reproductive behaviors. The vulva, located ventrally to the anus, is the external opening of the female reproductive system and is absent in males. During heat periods, females display specific behavioral signs, such as vocalization and increased affection, which are not observed in males.
Beyond the reproductive system, there are secondary sexual characteristics that often differentiate male and female cats. Male cats tend to develop a broader head, more muscular build, and sometimes a thicker neck, especially if they are unneutered. They may also develop a more prominent jowl or a thicker coat around the neck area, particularly in unneutered males. Female cats generally have a more slender build and may exhibit different behavioral patterns related to reproduction.
In summary, the most significant physical feature that a male cat has that a female cat does not is the presence of external testes and associated reproductive structures. These anatomical differences are fundamental and serve as the primary means of distinguishing between the sexes in domestic cats. Other distinctions include internal reproductive organs and secondary sexual characteristics, which further emphasize the biological differences inherent to each sex.