FAQ: How Can I Tell the Sex of a Cat?

I guess I've been around cats for so long that I can automatically "register" the sex of any given one. It's always a bit surprising to me then, to receive emails asking how to tell the difference between male and female cats. A man sent me this somewhat humorous email:

"I've just came across a big old tomcat or janecat can't tell the difference. How do I tell what sex the cat is before his vet visit on Thursday so I don't look like a complete ding-dong? Thanks."

Read my Reply

Of course, it's a somewhat different case when trying to "sex" a kitten. (That's what it's called; I didn't make it up.) Here's How to Tell the Sex of a Kitten.