Female cats, known as queens, possess a vagina. This reproductive organ is a necessary component of the female feline anatomy. Understanding the reproductive system requires differentiating between the internal structures and the external opening visible to an owner. The term “vagina” describes an internal muscular canal, while the external genital opening has a different name.
The Vagina and Internal Reproductive Tract
The feline vagina is a muscular tube connecting the cervix to the outside of the body, serving as the copulatory organ during mating and the final passage during birth. This canal is relatively short and is generally not visible without medical examination. The internal tract begins with the ovaries, which produce eggs and reproductive hormones.
The ovaries connect to the Y-shaped uterus via small tubes called oviducts. The uterus is bicornuate, meaning it has two long horns where multiple fetuses develop during pregnancy. Separating the uterus from the vagina is the cervix, a firm, sphincter-like organ that normally remains tightly closed to protect the uterus from infection.
Identifying the Vulva
What is externally visible on a female cat is the vulva, the opening to the reproductive tract. This external structure is located just below the anus, typically situated in a vertical position. Unlike the prominent external genitalia of some other mammals, the cat’s vulva is generally small, slit-like, and inconspicuous when the cat is not in a reproductive cycle.
For a healthy cat, the vulva should appear clean, pink, and free from any noticeable swelling or discharge. The area is often covered by fur, which obscures it from casual observation, making it easy for owners to overlook. Visible discharge, excessive licking, or persistent swelling outside of a known heat cycle may indicate a health concern, such as inflammation or infection.
Function during Estrus and Mating
The anatomy becomes engaged when the queen enters estrus, commonly known as “heat,” a phase that typically lasts about a week. During this time, the vulva may become moist or slightly swollen due to hormonal changes, though this external change is often subtle compared to other species. The most obvious signs are behavioral, including loud vocalization, rolling on the floor, and adopting a distinct posture where the hindquarters are elevated.
The feline reproductive system is unique because cats are induced ovulators, meaning the release of eggs from the ovaries does not happen spontaneously. Instead, the physical act of mating is required to stimulate the vagina and cervix. This mechanical stimulation triggers the release of luteinizing hormone (LH), which prompts ovulation to occur. To ensure a successful release of eggs, queens often require multiple mating sessions within a 24-hour period.