Reproduction control in cats: new developments in non-surgical methods.

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Reproductive Biology
• Companion Animal Health

Background:

• Reproduction control in cats is increasingly important for companion animal practice and breeding programs.
• Oestrus signs can strain the owner-pet relationship, necessitating effective control methods.
• Non-surgical options are sought due to owner preference, ethical concerns, and legal restrictions on surgical contraception.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an update on alternative feline reproduction control methods for small animal practitioners.
• To review the efficacy and safety of hormonal contraception and pregnancy termination options.
• To highlight the importance of understanding feline reproductive physiology for appropriate treatment selection.

Main Methods:

• Review of evidence on the mode of action and side effects of progestins.
• Evaluation of safety and efficacy data for GnRH agonists and melatonin implants for fertility suppression in cats.
• Examination of the antiprogestin aglepristone for pregnancy termination.

Main Results:

• Progestins, while used, carry risks like uterine disease and diabetes mellitus.
• GnRH agonists and melatonin implants offer evidence-based hormonal contraception for both male and female cats.
• Aglepristone provides an option for pregnancy termination in queens.

Conclusions:

• Modern pharmacological alternatives exist for feline oestrus suppression and pregnancy termination.
• GnRH agonists and melatonin implants are effective and safer alternatives to surgical contraception.
• Understanding feline reproductive cycles is crucial for selecting optimal non-surgical reproduction control strategies.