Key aspects of domestic cat spermatogenesis.

In mammals, spermatogenesis is a complex and cyclic process in which a spermatogonia turns into a highly differentiated cell: the spermatozoa. Spermatogenesis comprises proliferation of spermatogonia (spermatocytogenesis), meiosis of spermatocytes and finally differentiation of spermatids into spermatozoa (spermiogenesis). This review summarizes the current knowledge on domestic cat spermatogenesis including its physiology, development, efficiency and pathologies as well as their novel non-invasive diagnostic methods. This information will provide a resource for further studies to achieve precise fundamental knowledge of key aspects that will facilitate breeding, management and contraception in this popular species.