Artificial Insemination in Queens in the Clinical Practice Setting: Protocols and challenges

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Animal Reproduction
• Feline Reproduction

Background:

• Assisted reproductive techniques in cats are advancing but not widely used in practice.
• There's a growing demand from cat breeders for artificial insemination (AI) methods.
• AI can be a valuable tool for breeding high-value cats when natural mating is not feasible.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of AI protocols for cats.
• To enhance veterinary practitioners' understanding of feline AI techniques.
• To cover aspects from animal selection to AI procedures and equipment.

Main Methods:

• Review of scientific literature, including peer-reviewed journals and textbooks.
• Inclusion of data from national and international congress presentations.
• Incorporation of clinical experience from the authors.

Main Results:

• AI in cats is complex, requiring specific management of oestrus and ovulation induction.
• Essential equipment includes artificial vaginas, electroejaculators, endoscopes, and specialized catheters.
• Most procedures require standard veterinary skills, except for endoscopic techniques.

Conclusions:

• A thorough understanding of feline AI techniques is crucial for practitioners.
• This review offers guidance on protocols, semen handling, and ovulation induction.
• AI can be successfully implemented with appropriate knowledge and equipment.