If your female cat has suddenly started acting unusually, such as meowing a lot or seeming restless, she might be going through her first heat cycle. Cats in season go through natural hormonal changes that can cause big shifts in their behaviour, catching many owners off guard.
This guide will provide everything you need to know about cat heat cycles, including the main signs of cats in heat and, most importantly, how to support your cat through these new changes.
The cat heat cycle is a natural part of life for unspayed female cats during their breeding years. What’s especially interesting about cats is that, unlike dogs, they’re ‘induced ovulators’, which means they usually only ovulate when they mate. This trait (which also occurs in rabbits and ferrets) has a big impact on how a cat’s heat cycle works.
Proestrus marks the initial stage of a cat’s heat cycle, typically lasting just one to two days. During this brief window, female cats may show subtle shifts to their behaviour.
Then comes oestrus, the period when cats become receptive to mating. This stage usually lasts four to six days, but can stretch up to two weeks, during which cats display their most obvious heat behaviours: loud vocalisation, rolling around and acting restless.
Anoestrus is the resting phase between heat cycles. If mating hasn't occurred during oestrus, cats enter this quieter period for approximately two to three weeks before the whole cycle starts again.
When cats go into heat can vary, but there are some general patterns worth knowing.
Most cats reach sexual maturity between four and six months old, though breed makes a big difference. Siamese and other Oriental breeds tend to be early bloomers, sometimes having their first heat as early as four months. Larger breeds, such as Maine Coons, usually take their time, often not hitting maturity until 10 to 12 months.
Interestingly, cats are seasonal breeders, typically cycling when the days get longer. But with many indoor cats exposed to artificial light all year round, they often go into heat throughout the year instead.
During the breeding season, unspayed cats can cycle every two to three weeks if they don't become pregnant. This relentless cycling means cats can potentially have multiple litters per year, making spaying a crucial consideration for owners who don’t want kittens.
If you’re wondering, ‘how long are cats in heat?’, it usually lasts between four and 10 days, with most cats showing the most intense behaviour for about a week.
The exact timing can vary depending on the cat and whether she mates, but if she doesn’t, she’ll likely go back into heat within two to three weeks. For many owners, this cycle can feel pretty overwhelming if they’re not prepared.
Recognising signs of cats in heat is crucial for understanding what your cat is going through and why she’s suddenly behaving differently. Cats in heat signs can be dramatic and may genuinely concern owners who haven't witnessed the behaviour before
Signs of cats in heat include:
These disruptive symptoms often reach their peak during the oestrus stage of cat’s reproductive cycles
Keep your cat comfortable and safe as this natural process runs its course. Many cats become extra cuddly and affectionate, so giving her some gentle attention and strokes can really help to soothe her. At the same time, it’s important to secure all windows and doors, as cats in heat often feel a strong urge to escape.
Try to stick to her regular feeding routine, even if she seems less interested in food. And be mindful of scolding her for vocalising or acting differently; these behaviours are driven by powerful natural instincts she can’t control.
If you haven’t thought about it yet, your cat’s first heat cycle is a great time to chat with your vet about spaying. If you’re not planning to breed your cat, spaying can prevent future heat cycles and all the challenges that come with them.
Unlike humans, cats don’t go through a clear-cut menopause where heat cycles stop completely with age. Older cats might have irregular cycles, but they can keep going into heat throughout their lives. For cat owners, spaying is the only way to permanently stop these cycles.
Being in heat isn't typically painful for cats, though the hormonal changes can cause restlessness. The intense vocalisation tends to stem from strong reproductive instincts rather than physical pain. This is why being on heat in cats is often referred to as ‘calling’. However, you should always contact your vet if your cat seems unusually distressed.
You can’t completely stop a cat in heat from vocalising, as this is natural reproductive behaviour. However, you can minimise disruption by providing extra attention and interactive play sessions. The meowing will naturally decrease as her heat cycle ends.
The only permanent way to stop heat cycles is through spaying, a surgical procedure that removes the ovaries and usually the uterus.
If you have cat insurance with Petplan, you can use our Pet Expert Chat to speak with someone about any concerns regarding your cat’s heat cycle. Simply log into your My Petplan account to access.
Managing a cat in heat requires patience and understanding, but with proper knowledge, you can recognise the symptoms quickly and help your cat through this natural process.
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