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Expert: - 8/13/2009


Question
I recently adopted a cat, approximately 9 months old, who is supposed to be a neutered male.  He has multiple nipples (3 rows of 2 nipples or 6 nipples).  I am wondering if some male cats have nipples because my other male does not.  It's OK if "he" is a "she," but I don't want to give him a wrong gender name.  Thanks.

Answer
Susan,

Just like humans cats of both genders have nipples. I've seen several men mowing their lawn topless and I can tell you that some men definitely have more prominent nipples than others. It's unlikely that your older kitty doesn't have nipples, I would guess that there are any number of explanations that could give you an idea why you haven't noticed your other male cat's nipples. He may have long fur, his nipples may not be as visible as your new kitten, or his coat may be thicker than this new kitten's coat is. Cats have been a part of my life for so long that I don't consciously think about the differences in their genitals so in order to keep things short and relatively simple I've sent a link your way that you'll find helpful since the article contains photos and provides accurate information about determining whether a cat is male or female.

My recommendation to you would be to check out the following site:

http://www.pet-informed-veterinary-advice-online.com/sexing-kittens.html

Hopefully you can accurately determine whether this new kitty is a boy or girl, but in the event that you can't my next recommendation would be to have a veterinarian look at your cat to let you know whether the kitty is a he or she. If you have any further questions, concerns or you'd like me to clarify anything in this answer I'd be happy to help you out as much as possible.

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Ali

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I am the proud guardian of 5 mixed breed cats ranging from 12 weeks to 13 years old and one purebred ragdoll. I have 20+ years experience working with mixed breed cats from a variety of different situations. I have fostered cats/kittens with special needs/behavioral issues. I have rescued/rehabilitated/re-homed a variety of stray/abused cats. I can offer advice on managing feral cat colonies, rehabilitating strays and finding them forever homes. I can help you to determine whether a cat is stray or feral, there IS a significant difference. Improperly introducing a new cat/kitten can result in aggression between newly introduced cats because cats are territorial by nature and they don't like sudden changes in their environment. To learn more about a peaceful way to introduce a new cat into a home with other cats please check out my previous answers on this subject. Proper nutrition for cats can be confusing, I recommend checking out catinfo.org which was created by a veterinarian (Dr. Lisa Pierson) who takes a common sense approach to explaining feline nutrition. Cat behavior and instincts are different from those of humans, I can help you understand your cat's needs so that you can meet them adequately and have a balanced, psychologically and physically sound kitty. Cats vary in personality, energy level and intelligence, different approaches may be required to achieve results in terms of training and interaction with your feline companion. An intelligent, high energy cat must be kept busy or they will make their own fun. I am NOT a licensed veterinarian and I can't offer medical advice. If your cat is ill/injured my advice is always the same: get prompt medical treatment provided by a veterinarian. If finances are an issue I will try to find resources in your area that can help with medical costs or make other choices to ensure the welfare of your cat.

Experience

I have fostered feral and stray cats, rehabilitated and homed cats that many people recommended euthanasia for. I am willing to make an effort to do the research and ask questions because I care enough to find solutions to behavioral problems rather than giving up. I have an interest in the use of alternative therapies to help provide the best possible care for all cats and I can say in all honesty that I've seen some incredible things happen for some incredible cats and their human caregivers when the right alternative therapeutic modality is used by a qualified veterinarian with expertise and experience in the field.

Education/Credentials
I've earned my diploma as a veterinary assistant with honors.

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