How to Tell If Your Cat Is in Heat and What to Do About It: Cat Heat Signals

If your cat has ever suddenly started exhibiting strange behaviors, from loud, persistent yowling to excessive grooming, you may have witnessed the signs of a cat in heat. A cat in heat has a number of telltale signs, including loud yowling, restlessness, rubbing against objects, raising her hindquarters, and grooming her genital area more frequently.

This article will help you better understand the ins and outs of cat heat cycles by delving into the latest research from animal behaviorists and veterinarians. By the end, you'll be able to confidently recognize the signs that your cat is in heat and know what to do to help her through this time. From learning about feline reproductive biology to discovering how to cope with the behaviors that come with her hormones, this deep dive will ensure you have the knowledge you need to be the best pet parent you can be.

At What Age Do Cats Go Into Heat for the First Time?

Cats typically go into heat for the first time, also known as their first estrous cycle, between 4 and 12 months of age, according to the Kingsdale Animal Hospital. The average age for a cat’s first estrous cycle is between 6 and 7 months. However, some breeds, such as Siamese, may reach puberty and start cycling as early as 4 months, while larger breeds may not go into heat for the first time until they are 10 months old or even older, Purina reports.

One of the biggest factors in when a cat will go into heat for the first time is the increasing number of daylight hours in late winter and early spring. As VCA Animal Hospitals notes, cats are seasonally polyestrous, which means that the lengthening days of spring and summer are what triggers their reproductive cycles. This biological reaction typically starts in January or February in the Northern Hemisphere.

Breed is another factor, with short-haired breeds of cats generally reaching puberty and going into their first heat cycle earlier than long-haired breeds, says the Kingsdale Animal Hospital. By being aware of these differences, cat owners can be better prepared for when their cat will go into heat for the first time. This can help ensure a smoother transition for both the cat and their human family.

How Often and How Long Do Heat Cycles Last?

After the first heat, cats will go into heat every 2-3 weeks during the breeding season, which is most active from late winter to early fall in the Northern Hemisphere, The Vets reports. The length of each heat cycle can be between 1-21 days, with the average length being 7 days, VCA Animal Hospitals explains.

If the cat is not bred during a heat cycle, she will have a break of 2-19 days before the next cycle starts, Kingsdale Animal Hospital notes. The entire estrous cycle for cats can be between 1-6 weeks, with the average being 3 weeks, VCA Animal Hospitals says. It's important to note that cats never go through menopause and can continue to go into heat and have kittens throughout their lives.

Knowing the general timeline and the range of possibilities for a cat's heat cycle is important for cat owners so they can make sure to take the necessary steps to care for their pets and avoid unwanted litters. Armed with this information, cat owners can be more prepared to handle their cats' natural reproductive tendencies.

How to Calm a Cat in Heat: Home Remedies

To help soothe a cat in heat, Animally Vet Supplies advises creating a calm environment, reducing stimulation, and providing hiding places and high spaces. You can also use pheromone diffusers, play calming music, and give the cat a heat pad.

Playing with the cat and giving it interactive toys can help distract it from its mating instincts, says Animally Vet Supplies. Keeping the litter box clean and using herbal remedies like catnip or Rescue Remedy in moderation can also help, notes Holistapet.

In addition, Wedgewood Pharmacy recommends giving the cat extra attention, grooming, and love to help calm a cat in heat. However, it's important to avoid excessive handling and to make sure the cat is kept indoors and away from other cats to prevent pregnancy.

Preventing Pregnancy: Spaying and Contraceptives

Spaying, or surgical sterilization, is the most effective way to stop heat cycles and prevent pregnancy, says PDSA. However, non-surgical contraceptives such as megestrol acetate (MA) can be used to temporarily prevent heat cycles and pregnancy in cats.

Veterinarians suggest that female cats be given a 2.5 mg oral dose of MA once a week, or a 5 mg dose for 3 days if the cat is already in heat, according to Alley Cat Allies. MA can be used for up to 30 weeks and is an off-label contraceptive option for cats that is safe and effective.

In addition, female cats should be kept indoors and away from unneutered males when they are in heat to prevent mating, notes PDSA. With the help of a veterinarian and responsible pet care, cat owners can successfully prevent pregnancy and protect the health of their cats.

Conclusion: How to Tell If Your Cat Is in Heat

Knowing the signs that a cat is in heat is important for pet owners who want to be responsible and avoid unwanted litters. Since cats are seasonally polyestrous and can start having heat cycles as early as 4 months old, it's important for pet owners to be aware of the signs that their cat is in heat. By providing a warm, comfortable environment and using natural remedies, pet owners can help their cats get through their heat cycles.

Spaying and using non-surgical contraceptives, with the guidance of a veterinarian, are also good ways to prevent heat cycles and the pregnancies that can result from them. With the right knowledge and care, pet owners can ensure that their cats are safe and comfortable during this natural part of their reproductive cycle.