Semen collection by electroejaculation in the domestic cat.

A procedure for electroejaculation of domestic cats was developed. The method involved anesthetization of adult male cats with ketamine HC1 (33 mg/kg) or CI 744 (5.5 mg/kg). Optimal results were obtained with a 120-V ac electric stimulator capable of a continuous range of 0 to 60 V and 0 to 1 A. Using a 1- by 12-cm rectal probe constructed of teflon and stainless steel electrodes, ejaculation was obtained with an electrical stimulus over a range of 2 to 8 V and 5 to 220 mA. Voltage and amperage were increased at specific intervals in order to compensate for refractory ejaculatory response due to continued nerve and muscle stimulation. The procedure provided a means of obtaining ejaculates from domestic cats for purposes of semen evaluation and artificial insemination.