What is Infertility of Female?
Infertility is a term used to describe the inability to procreate or produce offspring. In cats, infertility can affect males and females. For female cats, fertility is based on the normal operation of the reproductive system, including the production of eggs, release of eggs (ovulation), and proper uterine processes once the egg has been fertilized. Fertilization requires insemination by a male of the species. If any portion of the reproductive system in either the male or the female is not performing properly, infertility can occur. In cats, ovulation occurs during mating, so proper breeding technique is also required for successful conception. In many cases, female infertility is a treatable medical condition.
Infertility of Female Average Cost
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Symptoms of Infertility of Female in Cats
The primary symptom of infertility in cats is a lack of offspring after multiple mating attempts. It is important to note that failure to produce offspring after a single mating attempt is fairly common, but continued inability to conceive could indicate an issue.
Symptoms Include:
- Failure to conceive
- Failure to mate or trouble mating
- Lack of desire to mate
- Abnormal mating cycles
- Repeated mating without pregnancy
- Early or late term pregnancy loss
- False pregnancy
- Fetal reabsorption
Causes of Infertility of Female in Cats
Various conditions and issues can result in female infertility. In many cases, infertility is related to a combination of factors rather than one specific cause. Occasionally, no specific cause can be determined. Some causes of infertility in female cats include:
- Hormonal changes or deficiencies
- Abnormal ovulation
- Lack of sufficient stimulus during mating to result in ovulation
- Inability to mate
- Lack of desire to mate – potentially related to hormonal issues or age
- Ovarian cysts
- Chronic endometriosis
- Infections of the reproductive system
- Feline leukemia or other viral infections
- Toxicosis
- Certain parasites or protozoa
- Hereditary issues including chromosome abnormalities
- Injury or trauma affecting reproductive organs
- Certain cancers
- Poor nutrition
- Developmental or growth issues
- Infertility of the male mate
Diagnosis of Infertility of Female in Cats
Veterinary staff may use several methods to diagnose infertility. A complete physical examination and full medical history will be required to identify any obvious causes of infertility or issues with conception. Be prepared to discuss the symptoms you have observed and the steps that have been taken to attempt to conceive. Be sure to advise your veterinarian if mating has been attempted with more than one male, as male infertility could be a concern. If only one mate has been involved, your veterinarian may conduct diagnostic tests on the male, including semen evaluation and ultrasonography. Also, be prepared to discuss your cat’s conception history. Different diagnostic methods may be used for a cat that was able to conceive in the past.
One of the primary diagnostic methods used to diagnose infertility in the female cat is testing for hormone levels. This is a common cause of fertility issues, and abnormal hormone levels can clearly identify the problem. X-ray or other imaging techniques may also be used to identify abnormalities in the female reproductive organs. A biopsy of uterine tissue may be required. This will require sedation, and must be conducted while under a veterinarian’s care. The biopsy may reveal certain underlying causes that result in conception difficulties. Additional testing for illnesses or infections may also be conducted, including blood or urine analysis.
Treatment of Infertility of Female in Cats
Treatment methods will vary depending on the underlying cause of infertility. If the male mate is determined to be the cause, they will undergo treatment or you may wish to seek another breeding partner. Some potential treatments for female infertility include:
Hormone Treatments
Treatments designed to improve or reduce the levels of various hormones may be necessary if an imbalance is determined to be the cause. Commonly administered hormones may be designed to improve thyroid function or induce ovulation. This treatment is generally considered low risk. Depending on the hormone being provided, the treatment may need to continue for some time.
Surgery
In the case of cysts, abnormalities, or obstructions within the reproductive system, surgery may be required to remedy the situation. As with any surgery, a moderate risk is presented. If your pet has poor reactions to anesthesia this treatment may not be viable.
Antibiotics, Antivirals, or Other Medications
If the underlying cause of the cat’s infertility is due to an illness or infection, medication to treat the cause will be administered. These types of medications are generally considered low risk, however, you should speak with the veterinarian about the risk of side effects. Generally, this type of treatment will not be prescribed until the exact cause is known.
Breeding Management
If breeding has been unsuccessful with no underlying cause being determined, breeding management may be necessary. Education on proper breeding techniques will be required to improve the chances of future breeding success. This method carries no risk.
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Recovery of Infertility of Female in Cats
Recovery from infertility is possible, but only in certain situations. Cats diagnosed with a treatable condition are often able to breed after treatment has concluded. In the case of improper breeding techniques or illnesses, the prognosis is often good. Ensuring proper breeding management and nutrition will lead to successful conception. In the event that surgery was required to resolve an issue, additional time and support may be necessary. Do not attempt to breed the female until healing has been completed. If a genetic or reproductive issue is to blame, it is possible that the female cat will not ever be able to produce kittens. Even if your cat is infertile, she can still lead a full life.
Infertility of Female Average Cost
From 393 quotes ranging from $200 - $1,000
Average Cost
$800
Top
Infertility of Female Questions and Advice from Veterinary Professionals
perssian
mano
3 Years
5 found this helpful
5 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Premature Labor
my cat was pregnant three months ago but on the date of birth she loss her offspring and after that she was mated but no signs of pregnancy,is my cat infertile?
Aug. 8, 2018
5 Recommendations
I cannot say whether or not Mano is infertile, there are many factors which may result in a failed mating and it may be just a timing issue; you should try to breed her another time and if she doesn’t take you should have your Veterinarian perform a breeding soundness examination. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM
www.msdvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition/management-of-reproduction-small-animals/infertility-in-small-animals
Aug. 8, 2018
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Sphynx
Lexi
4 Years
2 found this helpful
2 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
No Symptoms
Hi, I have 2 girls which are having problems getting pregnant. They already had 2 litters each 1.5yrs ago but now they are not getting pregnant. They come into heat and they mate with a proven boy and nothing. They get strong heat cycles as well. They had clindamycin treatment as well and now we started folic acid. Ultrasound and blood work all normal.
Feb. 23, 2018
2 Recommendations
It is unusual for two cats which have both had two previous litters, bred with a proven sire to not result in a pregnancy; since they have both had previous litters we can rule out anatomical conditions or developmental defects. Since both cats are affected, issues relating to environment, diet, hormonal conditions (one may affect the other), infections (viral or protozoan), prolonged estrous among others. Apart from looking into environmental or dietary issues, there I cannot think of anything else to suggest since ultrasound and blood work came back normal. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM
Feb. 23, 2018
Yes it is a bit strange. I feed a raw diet so I was thinking maybe a vitamin defficiency of some sort.
Feb. 23, 2018
Lexi's Owner
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Sphynx
Honey
14 Months
3 found this helpful
3 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
No Desire To Mate
What tests can I have done at my vets practice to determine if my female sphynx cat is fertile?
She is 14 months old and showing no signs of coming into season. I bought her on active and Im now concerned that there is something wrong.
She lives with a male sphynx who has been castrated.
She has been snap tested- all came back clear and good. she is very well and in good health.
I have taken her to a stud when I thought she may be in season (very difficult to tell any change in her behaviour!) she showed no interest at all!!
can you suggest anything?- I want to breed her, I paid for full breeding rights and Im now concerned that something is wrong !
what could you suggest?
is hormone treatment an option and if so is it expensive?
many thanks
Feb. 6, 2018
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
3 Recommendations
Thank you for your email. An ultrasound might be the next test that you want to pursue, to ultrasound the ovaries and determine if Honey's urogenital tract is normal. She may just be a cat that is going to come into heat a little later. I'm not aware of any hormone treatments for cats, but you can ask your veterinarian for a referral to a theriogenology specialist that will be able to further advise you on tests for fertility and possible therapy. I hope that all goes well with her.
Feb. 6, 2018
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Siberian
Lily
1 Year
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Not Conceiving
My cat is a female, she is healthy but skinny. She prefer dry food, she is naughty and play a lot. She pee and poo daily as well. My neighbor who are my cousins have a male cat who is fatty and lazy. They mate everyday for 10 months and till now she is not pregnant. What should we do?
Infertility of Female Average Cost
From 393 quotes ranging from $200 - $1,000
Average Cost
$800
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