Testosterone is a primary sex hormone in male felines, playing a significant role in their development and various biological functions. It influences many aspects of a male cat’s life, from physical maturation to typical behaviors.
Understanding Testosterone in Male Cats
Testosterone is a steroid hormone, an androgen, produced predominantly in the testes and, to a lesser extent, the adrenal glands. It promotes the development and maintenance of male characteristics. Intact male cats typically exhibit testosterone levels ranging from 1,000 to 6,000 pg/mL.
The hormone is fundamental for male cat development, especially during puberty. A surge of testosterone occurs around the time of birth, which contributes to the masculinization of neurons involved in male sexual behavior. By approximately three months of age, male kittens have sufficient testosterone to initiate the growth of penile spines, which fully develop between six and seven months. Testosterone is also essential for the development and function of accessory glands and sexual organs, supporting overall male sexual maturation.
How Testosterone Shapes Male Cat Behavior and Appearance
Testosterone significantly influences both the physical traits and behavioral patterns observed in intact male cats. Higher levels of this hormone contribute to noticeable physical changes, such as increased muscle mass and the development of thicker facial fur, often leading to what are known as “tomcat jowls” or broader cheeks. These physical adaptations can offer protection during fights.
Behaviorally, testosterone drives several distinct actions. Unneutered male cats frequently engage in territorial spraying, marking their environment with strong-smelling urine to communicate their presence and territorial claims to other cats. The urge to roam extensively in search of mates is another common behavior, leading intact males to wander greater distances than neutered males or females.
Testosterone also contributes to increased aggression towards other males, often stemming from sexual competition and the need to defend larger territories. These confrontations can result in injuries. Vocalizations, such as howling or yowling, become more frequent as they seek mates. Mounting behaviors are also common, driven by the heightened mating instinct.
The Effects of Neutering on Testosterone and Cat Traits
Neutering, or castration, involves the surgical removal of the testes, which are the primary source of testosterone production in male cats. This procedure leads to a significant and rapid decrease in the cat’s testosterone levels, typically falling to below 50 pg/mL in neutered males. While some behaviors may persist due to learned patterns, many changes are observed as the hormone levels diminish.
One of the most notable changes is a reduction or cessation of urine spraying and marking behaviors, as the hormonal drive for territorial communication decreases. The strong, pungent “tom cat” odor associated with their urine also becomes less pronounced. Neutering reduces the male cat’s strong urge to roam, significantly decreasing the distance they wander in search of mates and lowering their risk of injury or getting lost.
Inter-male aggression often decreases following neutering, as the sexual competition that fuels many fights is removed. Neutered cats may become more affectionate and calmer, often showing increased tolerance towards other cats and people. While many behaviors are hormone-driven and will lessen, some, like spraying, can become habitual and may persist to some extent, even in about 10% of neutered males. It takes time for the hormone levels to fully decrease and for behavioral changes to manifest, sometimes taking several weeks or months for full effects.