Research overview: in vitro fertilization in the domestic cat

In vitro fertilization in the domestic cat has provided the methodological foundation for producing felid embryos outside the body. This overview surveys how cat oocytes are recovered, matured, and fertilized in vitro, the culture conditions that support early embryo development, and the use of resulting embryos for transfer or study. It reviews the role of the domestic cat as a model whose well-developed protocols are adapted to endangered species. The review considers persistent inefficiencies such as variable oocyte competence and embryo arrest. Understanding feline in vitro fertilization is central to felid assisted reproduction, since it links gamete biology, embryo culture, and embryo transfer into a pipeline applicable to conservation of rare cats.