How to Determine the Sex of a Kitten
Summary
– Step 1: Differentiate between the genitals of a cat and a cat
– Step 2: Calculate the distance between the two openings
– Step 3: Determine the sex of the kitten using other indicators
Determining the sex of kittens is not as simple as it may seem. Before a month to a month and a half of age, males and females are physically similar. So, to avoid mistaking a kitten for a girl and vice versa, here are the steps to follow to determine the sex of a kitten.
1. Differentiate between the genitals of a cat and a female cat
When a kitten is less than a month and a half old, it’s not easy to tell if it’s a small male or a small female. Their genitals are, at this age, still very similar, especially since the scrotum of the males is not yet visible. The bursa only goes down between one and a half and two months.
Tip: comparing several kittens allows us to realize the differences better.
Later on, the sex of young cats and bitches show some morphological differences:
– In females, the genitals are just below the anus. A small, very discreet slit forms the vulva. The area between the anus and the genital area is usually hairless and shaped like an “i”.
– In the male, the distance between the anus and the penis is greater. In the kitten, the penis is then tiny and looks like a hole, and even if they are not yet apparent, the bursa will develop between the anus and the penis. The area between the anus and the genitalia is hairy in the male during the first weeks and looks like the sign “:”. A bulge in the scrotum can also be seen.
2. Calculate the distance between the two orifices
The most reliable method of determining the sex of the kitten is to measure the distance between the anus and the genitals.
If you’re not used to this, it’s best to have two people. One holds the kitten in his hands, and the other takes the measurements:
– Stand facing the anus, which is just below the tail.
– Gently lift the tail and measure the distance between the anus and the genitals.
– In females, the distance between the anus and the vulva is between 0.5 and less than 1 cm.
– In males, the distance between the anus and the penis is 1.2 to 1.4 m.
Tip: It is advisable to wear gloves if the animal does not like to be handled.
3. Determine the sex of the kitten by other indicators
While males may be slightly larger than females and have a rounder head, these signs are variable.
The presence of nipples does not indicate a female kitten; both sexes have them.
The color of a cat’s coat can also indicate its sex because it is related to chromosomes. However, they are not 100% reliable.
Carriers of a genetic anomaly are often sterile. Coats with three colors, calicos (white) or tortoiseshells, belong to females because they depend on the X chromosome. There are some sporadic cases of tricolor or calico males.
Red cats are more often males (in 70 to 80% of cases).
Read more:
– Why Choose a Water Dispenser for Your Cat;
–Why Choose a Water Fountain for Your Cat;
– 6 Easy Steps to Bathe Your Cat;
