What Are the Functions of the Female Reproductive Tract?
The ovaries contain the eggs (ova) that are waiting to be fertilized. The ovaries also produce the female hormones of estrogen and progesterone. The eggs are released from small saclike structures called follicles during the process of ovulation and pass through the fallopian tubes into the uterus. When a cat is spayed, the ovaries, oviducts, and uterus are removed. The uterus serves as the site for implantation of fertilized ova (eggs) and for the growth and development of the fetus. The uterus houses the fetus until it is ready to be delivered. The vagina provides a passage way from the outside of the body to the uterus. During breeding, sperm is deposited in the vagina by the male cat. The vagina provides a protected passage for fetuses to move from the uterus to the outside, and also protects the opening of the urethra (where urine leaves the body). The vulva protects the opening of the vagina and provides external markings that identify the animal as a female. The function of the
