Research overview: urethral catheterization for sperm collection in cats

Recovering sperm by urethral catheterization after pharmacological stimulation offers an alternative to electroejaculation for collecting felid semen. This overview surveys the use of this technique in domestic and nondomestic cats, in which medetomidine or similar agents prompt sperm to enter the urethra for retrieval by catheter. It reviews the quality and concentration of samples obtained, the advantages of a less invasive approach, and the situations in which it complements or substitutes for electroejaculation. The review connects the method to semen banking and assisted reproduction, where reliable sperm collection is a prerequisite. Understanding urethral catheterization broadens the toolkit for obtaining gametes from cats, supporting both research and conservation reproductive programs.