Quality of domestic cat semen collected by urethral catheterization after the use of different alpha 2-adrenergic agonists

Objectives We compared the effects of two alpha (alpha)(2)-adrenergic agonists on semen traits. Methods In this study, 13 adult domestic cats were divided into two experimental groups, according to the chemical ejaculation protocol used: the first group received medetomidine hydrochloride (100 mu g/kg) and ketamine (5000 mu g/kg); the second group received dexmedetomidine hydrochloride (25 mu g/kg) and ketamine (5000 mu g/kg), both by the intramuscular route. Results The animals responded positively (P >0.05) to chemical collection. Seminal parameters evaluated included volume, sperm vigor, total motility, progressive motility, sperm concentration, and the structural and functional integrity of the plasma membrane; sperm morphology values did not differ between groups (P >0.05). Conclusions and relevance The results indicated that dexmedetomidine is a more viable and economical alternative to medetomidine in domestic cats submitted to semen collection by urethral catheterization. Semen collection by urethral catheterization after using alpha(2)-adrenergic agonists is a recently developed technique in feline species that is considered to be quick and highly applicable to assisted reproduction programs in felids.

Automated summary

This study compared the effects of two alpha (alpha)(2)-adrenergic agonists on semen traits in domestic cats, with results indicating that dexmedetomidine is a more viable and economical alternative to medetomidine. Semen collection by urethral catheterization after using alpha(2)-adrenergic agonists is considered to be a quick and highly applicable technique in feline species for assisted reproduction programs.