Research overview: progestin contraceptive suppression in felids

Progestin-based contraceptives have been used to suppress reproduction in captive cats, but concerns about side effects have shaped their use. This overview surveys the application of progestin contraceptives in felids for population control, how they suppress cycling and ovulation, and the documented risks including uterine and mammary pathology associated with prolonged use. It reviews the shift toward alternative agents perceived as safer and the importance of reversibility for animals that may later need to breed. The review connects contraceptive suppression to studbook management and welfare. Understanding progestin contraception clarifies the trade-offs managers face between effectively limiting reproduction and protecting the long-term reproductive health of captive felids.