Reproduction Control in Cats: New Developments in Non-Surgical Methods

Reproduction control is an important area of feline medicine that can influence the relationship between cat and owner. Surgical contraception is not always desirable, particularly where the owner may wish to breed the cat at a future point. However, with the growing problem of cat overpopulation, non-surgical alternatives have even more significant implications for controlling feral cat populations and reducing shelter euthanasia.

Alternative methods are available for contraception among cats. For example, progestins may be used to preserve fertility, though the risks of uterine disease, mammary tumors, fibroadenomatosis or diabetes mellitus must be taken into account. The safety and efficacy of GnRH agonists and melatonin implants are also reviewed in this article, though the discussion is limited.