Cat Reproductive System: 5 Vet-Verified Facts & FAQs

A comprehensive guide to the anatomy, function, and health of male and female cat genitals for every cat owner.

By Medha deb

Sep 1, 2025

A comprehensive guide to the anatomy, function, and health of male and female cat genitals for every cat owner.

Image: HearthJunction Design Team

Cat Private Parts: Vet-Verified Facts & FAQs About Feline Genitals

Understanding the anatomy, function, and health of your cat’s genitals is crucial for responsible pet ownership. Whether you are a new cat parent, thinking about adopting, or simply eager to learn more about your feline friend, this thorough guide to cat genitals â covering both male and female anatomy â will help you recognize healthy development, spot problems early, and ensure your pet receives the best care possible.

Female Cat Genital Anatomy

A female cat’s reproductive system is designed to facilitate mating, pregnancy, and the birth of kittens. Learning to identify and understand the structure of the female genitalia helps in monitoring your cat’s health and identifying issues early.

1. The Vulva

The vulva is the outermost part of the female cat’s genitals. Located on the underside of the tail, beneath the anus and closer to the hind legs, the vulva consists of soft folds of skin that enclose the vaginal opening. The appearance of the vulva can vary between individual cats.

During a cat’s heat cycle, the vulva may become more swollen and prominent due to increased blood flow.
Swelling or abnormal discharge may be signs of health issues or estrus.

2. Vaginal Opening

At the center of the vulva is the vaginal opening, where the female’s reproductive tract meets the external environment. This is the passageway for mating and, eventually, for giving birth. Most of the time it is not highly visible unless the cat is in heat or there is a health issue present.

3. Internal Reproductive Organs of the Female Cat

Much of the female cat’s reproductive system lies inside the abdomen and is not externally visible.

Ovaries: Small, paired organs responsible for releasing eggs (ova) and producing important sex hormones such as estrogen and progesterone.
Oviducts: These thin tubes connect each ovary to the uterus, providing the passage for eggs. Fertilization by sperm occurs in the oviducts.
Uterus: Shaped like a ‘Y’, the uterus is where fertilized eggs implant and develop into fetuses. It expands significantly during pregnancy.
Cervix: This muscular barrier sits between the vagina and the uterus. During birth, the cervix dilates to allow kittens to pass through.
Vagina: A flexible, muscular tube connecting the cervix to the vaginal opening; it is the passage for both mating and birthing kittens.

Male Cat Genital Anatomy

The male cat’s reproductive anatomy is primarily located beneath the tail and within the abdomen, designed for mating and sperm delivery. Recognizing the external and internal structures is important for breeders and routine health checks.

1. The Scrotum

The scrotum is a small, pouch-like structure located under the tail and between the hind legs. It contains the testicles (or testes), which produce sperm and male hormones like testosterone. In neutered males, the testicles are removed, and the scrotum may appear shrunken or empty.

Healthy scrotal skin is typically smooth and free of lesions or swelling.
Any signs of asymmetry, enlargement, or discomfort warrant immediate veterinary attention.

2. The Penis

The penis of a male cat is normally not visible, as it remains retracted within a protective sheath. When extended (typically only during mating or certain medical exams), it reveals small, backward-facing spines. These spines play a role in stimulating ovulation in female cats during mating.

3. Prepuce (Penile Sheath)

The prepuce is the sheath of skin that covers and protects the penis when it is not extended. It’s located just below the anus, pointing downward between the hind legs. The opening should be clean and free of discharge or swelling.

4. Internal Structures

Testicles (Testes): These glands produce sperm and testosterone, essential for male fertility. They descend into the scrotum before birth.
Epididymis: A coiled tube attached to each testis, where sperm mature before ejaculation.
Vas Deferens: Carry sperm from the epididymis to the urethra for ejaculation.
Prostate and Accessory Glands: Unlike dogs, male cats have less prominent accessory glands, but the prostate helps produce some seminal fluid.

How to Distinguish Male and Female Kittens

Determining the sex of young kittens can be challenging, but knowing what to look for helps prevent confusion. Here are ways to identify boys and girls:

Feature	Female Kitten	Male Kitten
Distance Between Openings	Short (anus and vulva are close together, about 1/2 inch apart in kittens)	Longer (anus and penis further apart, about 1 inch or more in kittens)
Genital Shape	Vertical slit (vulva)	Small round opening (penis), sometimes with scrotal bulges
Scrotum/Testicles	Not present	May be visible as two small bulges below anus in older kittens

When in doubt, ask your veterinarian for a definitive check during a health exam.

Common Genital Health Issues in Cats

Vaginitis in Female Cats

Vaginitis is the inflammation of the vagina or vulva, most often caused by poor grooming as feces or urine collects in the fur around the genital area. Obese cats or those with arthritis may be especially prone due to difficulty cleaning themselves. Additional causes include:

Trauma to the vulva or anal area
Allergic reactions
Urinary tract infections
Tumors in the vaginal or anal region

Fungal (yeast) infections, common in humans, are very rare in cats. Symptoms of vaginitis may include swelling, discharge, excessive licking, or odor.

Treatment of Vaginitis

Treatment depends on the cause, but often involves prescription antibiotics for bacterial infections.
Steroids or pain relief may be used to reduce inflammation.
Cats may need a cone (e-collar) to prevent licking and allow the area to heal.
Avoid over-the-counter human treatments as they can be toxic to cats.
Work with your veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and proper products to help keep the area clean during healing.

Other Common Issues in Both Sexes

Urinary tract infections (UTIs): Can cause discomfort, blood in urine, and inappropriate elimination.
Tumors or growths: Any lump or mass in the genital area should always be checked by a veterinarian.
Congenital abnormalities: Rare, but kittens may be born with malformed genitalia.

Grooming, Cleaning, and Hygiene

Cleanliness of the genital area is vital for both male and female cats. While most healthy cats manage their own grooming, some may need extra help:

Obese, elderly, or arthritic cats may not be able to reach their back ends.
Gently use pet-safe wipes to keep the area clean, especially if you notice fecal buildup, urine stains, or discharge.
Always consult your vet if you notice redness, swelling, or unusual symptoms.
Spayed and neutered cats are less likely to experience some reproductive issues, but still require regular hygiene checks.

Why Spaying and Neutering Matters for Genital Health

Spaying (for females) and neutering (for males) are routine surgical procedures that remove the reproductive organs, dramatically reducing the risk of many health problems and unwanted behaviors.

Spayed females: No longer go into heat, wonât develop uterine infections (pyometra) or ovarian tumors.
Neutered males: Eliminates the risk of testicular cancer and greatly reduces spraying or territorial marking.
Both procedures also decrease the likelihood of roaming, fighting, and unwanted pregnancies.

Consult your veterinarian regarding the best age and timing for spaying or neutering. Early intervention provides the most preventive benefits and helps control the pet population.

When to See the Veterinarian

Regular checkups are essential for all cats, at least annually or more frequently as recommended by your veterinarian. Seek veterinary advice if you notice:

Swelling, redness, or sores in the genital area
Pain when urinating, straining, or vocalizing in the litter box
Abnormal discharge, blood, or foul odor
Unusual grooming behaviors or persistent licking
Changes in urination frequency, incontinence, or accidents

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I tell if my cat is male or female?

Check the distance between the anus and genital opening under the tail. Females have the openings close together with a vertical slit; males have them farther apart with a circular opening and may show signs of a scrotum in older kittens or adults.

Is it normal for a cat’s vulva to swell?

Slight swelling is common during a female’s heat cycle. Persistent or extreme swelling, especially with discharge, should prompt a veterinary exam.

Why does my male cat’s penis have spines?

The spines help stimulate ovulation in female cats during mating. This is a normal anatomical feature in intact male cats.

My cat can’t groom its private parts â what should I do?

Assist with gentle, pet-safe cleaning, and consult your veterinarian to rule out underlying health issues or arthritis that may impede self-grooming.

Are genital infections in cats common?

They are uncommon in healthy, well-groomed cats but can occur due to poor hygiene, underlying health problems, or aging. Prompt veterinary attention ensures effective treatment and prevents complications.

Key Takeaways for Cat Owners

Familiarize yourself with your cat’s genital anatomy to better identify trouble signs early.
Maintain routine grooming and assist your cat if they cannot clean themselves.
Promptly address any signs of infection, swelling, or discomfort with your veterinarian’s help.
Spaying and neutering are essential for long-term health and behavior management.
Annual veterinary checkups support reproductive and overall health.

Summary

Understanding your catâs reproductive anatomy, from the vulva and uterus in females to the scrotum and penis in males, helps maintain optimal feline health. Regular grooming, preventive veterinary visits, and early intervention for health issues ensure a happy, comfortable life for your pet.

References

Author

medha deb

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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