Effect of artificial light in the female domestic cat reproduction: What we know so far?

Abstract

Domestic felids (Felis catus) have been traditionally categorized as seasonal polyestrous with induced ovulation. Thus, the ability to augment or distribute the number of litters born throughout the year would offer a desirable advantage. Artificial-light regimens have been used to overcome seasonal variations in this species. Understanding the mechanisms that underlie photoperiodicity might enable the development of improved and sustainable breeding schemes. The aim of this article was therefore to summarize the present knowledge on the effect of artificial light on female-cat reproduction. To that end a systematic review of the literature from 1940 to the present was performed. International original articles and scientific abstracts were also included, and at the conclusion we emphasized areas that require further research.

Keywords: Estrous cycle; Feline; Illumination; Photoperiod; Pregnancy; Queen.