Feline reproduction
Ovarian tissue detection
Oestradiol
In entire queens and those with ovarian remnants after ovariohysterectomy the oestradiol concentration increases in late anoestrus/pro-oestrus. A single oestradiol measurement may be sufficient to detect ovarian tissue in a queen showing signs of oestrus at the time of sampling.
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hCG stimulation test
If the timing of the clinical presentation is not appropriate for measurement of oestradiol, or analysis does not provide confirmation of the presence of ovarian tissue, then an hCG stimulation test is recommended. The test should be performed between one and three days after the onset of oestrus behaviour, administration of hcG stimulates ovulation with subsequent production of progesterone which may be detected from 7-30 days later. False negative results are possible.
- Collect a basal sample of blood into a plain tube. Gel tubes are not suitable. Separate the serum within 30 minutes of sample collection. Label tube clearly
- Inject 500IU hCG (Chorulon®; Intervet) i/m (Chorulon® is not licensed for use in cats)
- Take a blood sample 2 hours later, separate serum within 30 minutes and store frozen (-18°C). If the progesterone sample at 7 days is equivocal, oestradiol levels on this sample may clarify the result
- Take a further blood sample 7-10 days later. Separate the serum within 30 minutes of sample collection. Label tube clearly, gel tubes are not suitable
AMH (Anti-Mullerian hormone)
Reproductive status can be very difficult to determine in animals with an unknown history such as strays or rescue animals. AMH is a useful test to clarify reproductive status in cats and dogs and studies so far have suggested it may be more reliable than performing the GnRH stimulation test where no signs of oestrus are present at the time of sampling.
Further information will become available as studies are completed.
Feline cryptorchidism
Testosterone
If there is an entire retained testicle a basal testosterone may provide confirmation.
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hCG Stimulation test
For investigation of incomplete castration or cryptorchidism it is preferable to perform an hCG stimulation test.
- Take 2ml of blood into a plain tube
- Inject 100-500IU hCG (Chorulon®; Intervet) i/m (Chorulon® is not licensed for use in cats)
- Take a second sample 30 minutes to 2 hours after hCG administration
- Separate the serum and label the tubes clearly