7. Companion animal husbandry

Question 1

Describe the oestrus cycle in the bitch

Answer 1

Puberty is usually between 6-9 months (range 2-24 months)

• monoestrus - ovulate once every season, don’t have to mate to ovulate
• oestrus periods are non-seasonal with an average of 6-month cycles
• gestation period = 57=69 days, usually 63
• avg. litter size = (3-8+) breed dependant

Question 2

What does polytocous mean?

Answer 2

producing numerous offspring in each litter

Question 3

Describe the oestrus cycle in the queen

Answer 3

Puberty 6-9 months, varies dependant on time of year and body weight, can vary with breed

• seasonally polyoestrus - recurrent oestrus cycles every 21 days during breeding season (Feb-Sept). Indoor cats may cycle cont.
• gestation period = 61-70 days, usually 65 days
• avg. litter size 2-4 kittens

Question 4

How should feeding be managed in the bitch and queen?

Answer 4

Normal rations then:

- increase amount by approx 10% each week, after 6th week of pregnancy

Question 5

How should exercise be managed in the bitch and queen?

Answer 5

Dogs - gentle but normal, avoid excessive boisterous activity
Cats - normal to maintain muscle tone

Question 6

How should worming be managed in the bitch and queen?

Answer 6

Twice during pregnancy, last treatment in the last two weeks

Question 7

How should vaccination be managed in the bitch and queen?

Answer 7

Just before mating