Cat Barbed Penis - Male Cat Anatomy

At first glance, due to the presence of a foreskin, it’s difficult to completely understand a male cat’s anatomy, especially in regards to a male cat’s penis. A male cat’s penis is characterized by its penile spines, also known as small keratinized spines, which resemble spikes. They are made of keratin, the same material found in claws, and are normally hidden by the foreskin.

These spines present themselves when a male cat mounts a female cat and enters a female cat’s genital organ. Cat penile spines disappear back into the foreskin once cat mating is over.

An interesting fact about these spines is that they are not only present on the penis, but also on a cat’s tongue. A cat’s tongue has sharp papillae, which allow it to retain and rip flesh when eating, as well as to help it clean itself. This rough texture is noticeable when a cat licks you.

Before we continue analyzing male cat anatomy, it’s important to discuss how to tell the gender of a cat.

You will first have to lift your kitten’s tail. Both male and female cats will present an anus hole just below the tail. Below this, towards the abdomen, you may see a line that will appear to form an I; this is a vertical slit, and means your kitten is a female. In male cats, however, you will notice a round lump which is further away from the anus than a female’s vulva. Additionally, as a male cat matures, you will notice the formation of its testicles. In very young kittens, these differences can be subtle, so a veterinarian can help confirm the kitten’s sex if you are unsure.

If you have any doubts about your cat’s gender, we recommend consulting your veterinarian. It is incredibly important to be able to tell the gender of your kitten at an early age, specifically because heat and reproduction will vary according to a cat’s gender. In addition, we recommend neutering your cat before its first heat.

For more, read the benefits of neutering a cat.

Cat mating will take place during a female’s fertile stage. Cats are seasonal polyestrous, which means that they may go into heat repeatedly during the breeding season when there is enough sunlight. For practical purposes, cats are able to reproduce throughout the year, particularly when they live indoors and are exposed to artificial light.

Male cats do not experience heat stages like female cats; their mating behavior is often stimulated by a female cat’s pheromones. Female cats in heat may meow unbearably, elevate their pelvis and urinate excessively (marking). They may also present symptoms such as escape attempts, nervousness and general behavioral changes.

Why do cats scream when they mate?

After the tomcat mounts the female, the penile spines stimulate her reproductive tract as he withdraws his penis, helping trigger the hormonal response that can lead to ovulation. These spines also help anchor the penis during intercourse.

You may be wondering, is cat mating painful? Mating can be uncomfortable for the female, particularly during withdrawal. Vocalizing is a common response, but it does not by itself indicate whether she has been injured.

For more, read why do cats make noise when mating?

If you notice that your cat’s penis is sticking out on the exterior of its foreskin, this may be a sign of a urinary disorder. Urinary problems are common in male cats, including infections and blockages. In general, you may also notice your cat licking this area, showing signs of discomfort when urinating, and the penis may change to a purple color.

If you notice these cat penis infection symptoms, we recommend consulting a veterinarian immediately, especially if your cat is not peeing at all. A urinary blockage is an emergency, and a cat’s condition can become life-threatening if it is not treated promptly.

Cat urinary tract infections (UTIs) may require prescribed medication. Urinary signs can also have other causes, including stress-related problems; in these cases, increased environmental enrichment is encouraged. If the penis remains exposed and does not retract, seek veterinary advice even if your cat is urinating normally.

For more, read why does my cat push out his penis and lick it?

Additional reproductive disorders in male cats may include:

• Cryptorchidism
• Testicle inflammation
• Inability to retract penis (paraphimosis)
• Constant erection (priapism)

Cryptorchidism means one or both testicles have not descended into the scrotum. If you notice anything abnormal in relation to your cat’s testicles or penis, we recommend consulting a veterinarian as soon as possible. For more, read my cat has swollen testicles - causes and treatment.

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