Stamou A., Boscos C. .

The present paper deals with the physiology of the estrous cycle of the domestic cat. Puberty and optimal breeding age as well as the parameters that regulate the reproductive (ovarian) activity of the queen are analyzed. A description of the mechanisms that induce ovulation in this species is given. The stages of the estrous cycle along with their determining factors are analyzed. Additionally, the procedure for obtaining feline vaginal smears and the use of vaginal cytology in discriminating the stage of the estrous cycle are described.

Key words: cat, estrous cycle, photoperiod, ovulation, follicularphase