Reproduction

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This course explores the foundational principles of companion animal reproduction commonly encountered in general practice. Participants will refresh their understanding of reproductive physiology and learn how to apply this knowledge to everyday clinical decision-making.

The course also provides a comprehensive and up-to-date review of sterilisation options, with a focus on supporting improved informed consent. By the end, participants will be equipped to optimise patient outcomes while strengthening client trust and rapport.

Why do a reproduction course?

  • Understand the full picture: explore the biological, ethical, and client-driven factors influencing breeding choices and sterilisation decisions, so you can guide owners with greater confidence and empathy.
  • Stay current and confident: refresh and expand your knowledge of both surgical and non-surgical sterilisation options, including benefits, risks, timing, and the latest evidence-based recommendations.
  • Enhance clinical outcomes: apply best-practice principles to improve neonatal survival rates and optimise reproductive health.
  • Strengthen your clinical problem-solving: learn to recognise, diagnose, and manage common reproductive system pathologies more effectively.

Topics

  • Control of fertility and breeding
  • Timing of desexing
  • The oestrous cycle and breeding
  • Pregnancy diagnosis in the dog and cat
  • Pregnancy in the bitch and queen
  • Neonatal care of puppies and kittens
  • Mastitis
  • Pseudopregnancy
  • Mammary neoplasia
  • Cryptorchidism

Learning objectives?

  • Advise clients on the risks, benefits, and limitations of all breeding management options.
  • Recognise key stages of the canine and feline oestrous cycles.
  • Apply appropriate techniques for assessing optimal breeding timing.
  • Select and apply appropriate techniques for confirming pregnancy at different gestational stages.
  • Advise clients on optimal management of the pregnant bitch or queen.
  • Recognise signs of neonatal distress and apply first-line supportive measures.
  • Explain the pathophysiology and clinical signs of pseudopregnancy.
  • Recognise risk factors and typical presentations of mastitis and mammary neoplasia.
  • Plan appropriate diagnostic and management strategies for cryptorchidism.

Contributors

  • Thomas Odom BSc DVM
  • Kat Crosse MA VetMB MANZCVS DipECVS
  • Rebecca Murphy BSc BVSc TCI GlenBred