The queen should be taken to the tom when showing signs of estrus (vocalization, lordosis), as early as the second day. The breeding area should be familiar to the tom, quiet, and have good footing and a minimum of interference, while permitting observation. The courtship should not be interrupted unless there is concern for the safety of either cat.
Toms have been known to copulate to the point of physical exhaustion; however, queens normally go through a period of rolling and grooming after a breeding and may not let the tom remount for some time.
Because ovulation is induced by vaginal-cervical stimulation, multiple breedings over 2–3 days are advised. Periods of separation between breedings prevent exhaustion and diminish the chances of fighting. The stress of transportation may affect reproductive functions in nervous queens.
Evaluation for pregnancy can be performed by abdominal palpation and ultrasonography 21–30 days after breeding, which permits evaluation of fetal viability and normalcy (see ultrasonogram image, pregnancy).
Courtesy of Dr. Autumn Davidson.
Artificial insemination in the feline is most commonly performed in endangered species, requiring documentation of follicular maturation after medical manipulation.
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