What Is AMH?

Spaychek® detects anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) in cats and dogs. AMH is a protein hormone produced by ovarian follicles in females and testicular Sertoli cells in males. Serum concentrations of AMH markedly decline following bilateral ovariectomy and castration. The ovaries and testes are believed to be the sole source of AMH in the circulation.

During the reproductive years, AMH is detectable in serum of dogs and cats during estrus and anestrus. Now, a single blood test can easily and reliably detect when ovaries are present or absent thus determining spay status. Recent studies show that AMH is also a reliable biomarker for the possible detection of an ovarian remnant.

Spaychek® can also be useful in differentiating a neutered from a cryptorchid dog or cat. A positive test result in a male is consistent with the presence of testicular tissue. A negative test result is consistent with a neutered male.

The AMH Difference
Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) testing is cost-effective. It is accurate at any time in estrus or anestrus and there is no need to repeat the test.

Tests and Limitations of Commonly performed diagnostic tests

Ultrasonography — It's accuracy is dependent on the size and location of the ovarian remnant or cryptorchid testis and on the sonographer's skill level.
Vaginal Cytology — May be useful only if the animal presents during late proestrus or estrus.
LH — A single high LH test will not confirm spay status. False positives can occur around the time of ovulation and retesting is recommended, which can be expensive.
Stimulation Testing — Dynamic testing is costly and requires multiple blood tests.