How to Tell a Male & Female Cat Apart

It̵7;s not always as easy as it seems it should be to tell male and female cats apart, especially if the cat in question is very young or is a neutered male. Close inspection reveals the truth, in most cases, although sometimes you may have to use your sense of touch to determine if the cat is male or female. As a last resort, you can ask your veterinarian the next time you take the cat in for an examination.

Instructions

    • 1

      Put on rubber gloves, if you have some available. Even if the cat is in great health, you may touch areas that are laden with germs. If you don̵7;t have rubber gloves, just make sure to wash your hands thoroughly after handling the cat.

    • 2

      Approach the cat calmly and lift its tail. Some cats don̵7;t appreciate this kind of touching, however, so be prepared for resistance. You might want someone to help you gently restrain the cat.

    • 3

      Observe the cat's rear area. If the cat is long-haired, you should part the fur to get a good look. The anus is located nearest to the base of the tail. Just slightly below that you̵7;ll either see a cat̵7;s scrotum (if male) or the vulva (if female). If the cat is female, you̵7;ll see a small slit below the anus.
      If your cat is an un-neutered male, and at least a few months old, you should instead see two fur-covered testicles protruding below the anus. In young kittens this might not be noticeable and instead you will see a round, furless spot. The round spot is probably the kitten̵7;s penis (just the tip, the rest is sheathed). If you still can̵7;t tell visually, use your gloved hands to feel around and you should find a male cat or kitten̵7;s testicles by touch.