Background: Vitrification by Rapid-I method could be essential for felid rescue programs to protect wild felid in the future.
Objective: This study was aimed at adapting the Rapid I method and evaluating the viability of serval and Pallas cat oocytes compared to oocytes of the domestic cat.
Materials and methods: Oocytes after collection and in vitro maturation were vitrified using Cryotech medium (Cryotech, Japan) and a Rapid-I device (Vitrolife, Sweden). To evaluate viability, oocytes after warming were stained with fluorescein diacetate and ethidium bromide.
Results: Survival rate in the control group (domestic cat) was 75 %. In the experimental group, 70% (serval) and 60% (pallas cat) viable oocytes were found.
Conclusion: The Rapid-I method can be applied successfully for the vitrification of wild felid oocytes.