Female Cat Reproductive System

Female Cat Reproductive System

• Anal glands are located laterally to the rectum, playing a role in scent marking.

• The cervix functions as a distally tapered sphincter-like portion of the uterus, controlling passage between the uterus and vagina.

• Body of the uterus is formed by the union of the uterine horns at the posterior end.

• Broad ligament serves as the main supportive structure of the reproductive tract, anchoring various components.

• Mesovarium supports the ovary, providing structural integrity and connection.

• Mesosalpinx attaches to the uterine tube, facilitating connection between the ovary and uterus.

• Mesometrium is the ligament that attaches to the uterus, including the uterine horn, providing support to the uterus.

• Round ligament is a fibrous band within the mesometrium extending diagonally from the uterine horn to the body wall to help stabilize the uterus.

• Clitoris is a small, hard-to-find structure located directly behind the urethral orifice, contributing to reproductive function.

• Fimbria are frill-like projections at the ovaries that assist in guiding the ovum into the uterine tube.

• Infundibulum is the enlarged proximal end of the uterine tube that forms a hood-like expansion over the anterior ovary to capture eggs.

• Mammary glands are located beneath the thorax and abdomen, becoming more pronounced during pregnancy.

• Ostium tubae refers to the opening of the infundibulum where the uterine tube begins.

• Ovarian ligament is a short and tough ligament that anchors the ovary to the anterior end of the uterine horn.

• Ovary acts as the female gonads, positioned in the abdominal cavity just posterior to the kidneys, responsible for producing eggs.

• Suspensory ovarian ligament supports the ovary anteriorly, extending towards the dorsal body wall.

• Urethral orifice serves as the entry point for the urethra, allowing urine to exit the body.

• Urogenital aperture is the external opening that connects to the urogenital sinus.

• Urogenital sinus is a common passageway formed by the union of the urethra and vagina, facilitating reproductive and urinary functions.

• Uterine horn is the area where the uterine tube connects posteriorly; these structures are typically narrow unless the cat is pregnant or has previously litered.

• Uterine tube comprises the most anterior portion of the reproductive tubes through which ovum are transported; they are thin and convoluted lying lateral to the ovaries.

• Vagina is the canal that connects the uterus to the outside, situated between the cervix and urogenital sinus, facilitating childbirth and copulation.

Explore the anatomy and functions of the female cat reproductive system, including the cervix, uterus, and supportive ligaments. This quiz focuses on the key structures and their roles in reproduction and overall health. Test your knowledge on the unique aspects of feline anatomy.