The reproductive system, pregnancy, development and lactation Flashcards
List the main anatomical structures of the female reproductive system
The Suspensory, Broad & Round ligaments, the Ovaries, the Oviducts, the Uterus, the Cervix, the Vagina and the Vulva
List the main anatomical structures of the male reproductive system
The testes, the epididymis, the vas deferens, the accessory sex glands that include the prostate and the penis.
List the functions of the main anatomical structures of the male reproductive system.
The testes - produce spermatozoa and testosterone.
The epididymis - storage and maturation of spermatozoa.
The vas deferens - Connects the epididymis to the urethra allowing the spermatozoa to be delivered to the urethra during ejaculation.
The accessory sex glands including the prostate - produce and mix substances with the spermatozoa during reproduction to extend their life and increase the chance of successful fertilization
The penis - structure used to deliver spermatozoa to the reproductive tract of the female during breeding.
Discuss the different types of heat/estrus intervals in common veterinary species
Polyestrus - multiple heats throughout the year independent of the season cattle and pigs
Seasonally polyestrus - at certain times of year these animals will go from 1 heat to the next eg cats, horses & sheep
Diestrus - 2 heats per year dog
Monoestrus - 1 heat per year foxes and mink
List the stages of the estrus cycle
Proestrus, Estrus. Diestrus and Anestrus
Define Heat/Estrus in dogs and cats
The time in the reproductive cycle of the female controlled by hormones from the anterior pituitary and ovaries when an egg/ovum is released from the ovary. This event is coordinated with signals to males of the species that the female is ready to breed with the goal of the egg/eggs being fertilized by sperm from the male.
What are the signs of heat/estrus/season in the cat?
Vocalizing
Rolling
Rubbing
Attention seeking
Raise rear quarters when patted
What are the signs of heat/estrus/season in the dog?
Swelling of the vulva
Bloody vaginal discharge
Lasts 1 ½ - 2 weeks
Define Gestation and Parturition
Gestation - pregnancy
Parturition - birth
Describe the role of the placenta during pregnancy
It provides oxygen and nutrients to the developing fetus/fetuses and removes waste products from them.
List the gestation periods for cats and dogs
Cats - 58 - 67 days
Dogs - 58 - 68 days
List the stages of parturition and what is involved in each stage
First Stage - Uterine contractions
Second Stage - Actual delivery of newborn
Third Stage - Delivery of placenta
Describe the role of the mammary glands
They produce colostrum and milk for the infant.
