A cat is in heat: how to calm it down, how often it happens and what to do

What is estrus

Every individual experiences delight at the sight of small and cute animals. But life is designed in such a way that every living creature grows up, declaring such needs as procreation.

A cat is not only a four-legged friend for the little inhabitants of the house.
She also wants to be a mother and share love with her fur babies.
Before a purr is ready to breed, a natural process called estrus or estrus occurs in her body.
This indicates her puberty. After which she is able to bear and give birth to kittens.

Estrus is easily determined. This article will help even a beginner in cat breeding to understand the entire structure of the animal’s physiology.

Symptoms and features of estrus

The onset of estrus is often accompanied by a change in the animal's behavior. During this period, the cat has practically no control over its behavior; it is under the complete power of instincts. This is why even the most well-mannered, but unsterilized, cats during the period of estrus often begin to go to the toilet in a place other than the litter tray. They mark their territory with their scent, thus attracting males.

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The cat's egestive cycle is divided into several phases, which have their own symptoms:

Precursor or proestrus. Hormonal changes begin to occur in the animal's body. A cat may become too affectionate and constantly ask for attention from its owner. At the same time, she is not yet ready for mating, and therefore does not allow cats to approach her and can react quite aggressively to them.
Estrus or estrus. Swelling of the genital organs can be observed, and light, clear discharge is possible. The cat often licks itself under its tail. She behaves restlessly, rubbing herself against furniture, walls and her owner’s legs. The cat can press itself to the floor and raise its tail, inviting the male to mate. Often this period is accompanied by screams that do not stop day or night. The cat's appetite decreases. During this period, the animal may lose weight.
Afterflow or metestrus. The cat no longer allows males to approach her. Often during this period she may already be pregnant. Sometimes after estrus in cats a state of false pregnancy occurs. If pregnancy does not occur, the hormonal levels gradually return to normal, and sexual desire subsides.
Interestrus or Anestrus. This is a period of rest that occurs between heats. The animal is completely calm, all symptoms of estrus are completely absent. The cat shows no interest in cats.

In some cases, symptoms of estrus remain unexpressed. The owners may even be pleased with this course of events, because the behavior of the pet during a special period does not change at all. However, the absence of symptoms of estrus may indicate a malfunction of the animal's body. In addition, even cats with relatively calm heats are still at risk. They are susceptible to various diseases of the reproductive system.

If a cat is involved in breeding, but her estrus is mild, contact with a sexually mature cat can often change the situation. After this, the symptoms of estrus should become more pronounced. In some situations, the veterinarian may prescribe hormonal medications to the animal, which will help establish a normal estrus cycle.

Signs of estrus

In order to determine ovulation in a cat, they take a closer look at its behavior. Main signs of estrus:

The animal became affectionate. It will be especially noticeable if the pet has a wayward character;
Arches the body so that the back part rises;
Refuses to eat;
Makes heart-rending sounds;
She experiences increased urination and elimination;
An animal living in the house may want to go outside.

Advice! Do not punish your cat for such indecent behavior. It is very difficult for her at this time. The owner should show maximum patience and love for his pet.

How to calm your furry pet?

At home, you can try to calm a cat during heat without using any medications . The most important thing you can do to help the purr during this difficult period for her is to show her more tenderness and care. Just pick her up more often, stroke her, comb her, talk to her. Such simple manipulations will relieve tension and calm your pet at least a little.

Warm and soft bedding

Cats appreciate comfort at any time and in any emotional state . And during estrus, they especially prefer something soft and warm. To calm your cat down, you can offer her a soft and warm pillow, a heating pad, or even just a heated bag.

A warm bath will help calm your furry pet for a long time. Afterwards, she will be busy licking the fur, which will reduce tension and stress levels.

Isolation from cats

During estrus, the presence of male cats is very exciting for the female . Therefore, to prevent pregnancy, she should not be allowed outside. Windows and doors must be closed. If there is also a cat living in the house, it is recommended to give it to friends for a while.

Games and entertainment

Games will help distract the cat from sexual heat, since during this period her motor activity increases . The pet’s energy is overflowing, so at night she begins to scream, calling for the cat. To eliminate night “concerts,” the female literally needs to be forced to play during the day. To do this, you can buy or make new toys or even play with it yourself. Having played enough during the day, the kitty will sleep peacefully all night.

Using herbal infusions:

Infusions of thyme, chamomile or natural mint, of course, will not completely rid the animal of sexual desire, but they will significantly reduce activity. Moreover, these herbs have no side effects and are inexpensive.

Types of estrus

Veterinarians distinguish four types of estrus in purring cats. By identifying these features, it will be easier for the owner psychologically to survive a difficult period in the animal’s life and decide on the mating date if there is a desire to breed animals.

During estrus, a cat goes through the following stages that determine its readiness to mate.

Preparatory phase or proestrus. Lasts from 1-4 days. Signs: The purr rolls along the surface of the floor and caresses the inhabitants of the house. Signs of the first discharge appear. It's too early to let the cat near the cat.

Estrus. The second stage lasts 5-10 days (it all depends on the breed of cat). It is characterized by a loud, incessant cry that the pet makes. This period cannot be skipped if the breeder decides to breed.

Third stage or after estrus. It depends on whether fertilization has occurred.
If a cat becomes pregnant, then after 60-70 days, she will give birth to offspring.
There are cases when a false pregnancy occurs; there is no need to be afraid of this. This is how nature intended.
Everything goes away in 30-45 days. If the animal did not participate in mating, then sexual desire is dulled within 2-15 days.
After which the pet may experience aggressive behavior. You also need to wait out this period, everything will return to normal.

Anestrus or the fourth stage. Called the rest period. It lasts from three weeks to two months.

How to help a cat in heat?

What does estrus indicate?

When you get a cat, you already know that sooner or later your pet will go into heat. This is a signal that the cat has entered puberty, its ovaries have begun to work, and the representative of the fauna can continue the race. The question is that the physiology of a wild animal of prey does not always correspond to plans for a comfortable home life.

When cats go into heat, changes in behavior are observed. Your ward either becomes very affectionate and constantly demands to be scratched behind the ear, or suddenly shows waywardness and even aggression. Often, a furry pet's appetite in this state decreases. A restless cat rubs against the furniture, lifts its tail, and tries to escape from the house.

Other sure signs of estrus are frequent trips to relieve themselves, the desire to mark territory, uterine cries, sometimes very loud. The cat is in heat, she obeys her instincts and tries to attract the cat’s attention. Even if he sits in an apartment and there are no cats around.

The described signs of estrus may appear stronger or weaker. It all depends on the individual characteristics of your pet’s body.

A cat's estrus occurs in four stages. At first, for one to four days, your ward does not behave as usual, but does not allow cats near her. Then the actual heat begins. A cat's heat lasts about five to ten days, sometimes longer. On the third to fifth day, breeders usually breed. Then the cat slowly begins to emerge from the state of heat. With successful fertilization, she can suddenly change her mercy to anger towards the opposite sex. The fourth stage is normalization of the condition, a break until the next heat.

On average, a cat's first heat occurs between seven and nine months of age. But this may happen sooner or later. If your pet's first heat occurred at 5 months or 11 months, this is quite normal. The frequency of estrus varies from person to person, and much depends on the breed. Oriental and Persian cats are more likely to go into heat than Scottish and British cats. The frequency of estrus is affected by the length of daylight hours, ambient temperature, cat activity, health status, and diet. Some cats come into heat once every three weeks, while others come into heat once every six months.

What to do

Keep track of when your cat's first and subsequent heats occur. Make a note of any signs your dog shows of this condition. It is important to know how easily your pet tolerates heat. It happens that the heat goes almost unnoticed. And it happens that a cat suffers and torments its owners.

You need to decide in advance whether your pet will be a mother cat, and you will be a kitten breeder. For most cat lovers, a four-legged cat is more suitable as a pet. If you have no plans to breed kittens, plan to have them spayed.

Veterinarians recommend sterilizing cats at the age of 8 months. The difficulty is that, ideally, you need to let the young cat develop immunity, a muscular system, and get stronger. It is advisable to have time to sterilize before the cat's first heat. Estrus is a signal about the possibility of a young cat becoming pregnant, so take care of her safety and do not let your pet go for a walk alone. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the most appropriate time for surgery.

All vaccinations must be completed at least three weeks before sterilization. Treatment against parasites also needs to be carried out in advance. A healthy pet must be taken to surgery. Fever, lethargy, and malaise are reasons to postpone the procedure.

Sterilization will relieve the cat from periodic torment by natural instincts. Timely removal of the uterus and ovaries will protect the cat from tumors and unwanted neoplasms in an adult cat.

If you decide to breed kittens, then mating will save your cat from suffering during the estrus period. A pregnant cat will not mark territory, but will focus on bearing and feeding her offspring. In this case, the next estrus can be expected three or three and a half months after the kittens are born.

There is a medicinal way to prevent the discomfort associated with estrus. Hormonal medications against signs of estrus are prescribed by a veterinarian. These can be tablets, injections, drops. It is important to strictly adhere to the doctor’s instructions and not to get carried away with hormonal medications. They can solve the problem, but are fraught with side effects. Such drugs can cause hormonal imbalances. It is possible that even a single dose of such medications will make the cat feel unwell.

Do not use hormonal medications on your cat without consulting your veterinarian.

The main thing is to do no harm

Always remember that your cat does not want to harm you when she screams or marks her territory. Estrus is a period when a cat really cannot boast of good manners, she follows her instincts. Be patient. Try to spend more time with your ward. Brush your pet, stroke its fur, talk to it. Let the cat feel your care and support. Distract her from the call of nature, occupy her with her favorite toys, and let the cat frolic carefree with you. Do not allow yourself to be rude or punishing towards your ward. The heat will pass, but the bitter memory of the owners’ irritability will remain.

Any measures you take against sexual heat should be in the best interests of the pet. Have you decided to breed kittens? First, make sure that the cat becomes an adult and gains strength. Her body will be ready to bear offspring at the age of one and a half to two years. Before this, your cat will have to go through several heats without mating.

Sometimes estrus in young cats is more intense, and pets can even show aggression. How to calm a cat during heat? Consult your veterinarian; a specialist will select plant-based soothing drops for your pet. They will not interfere with the heat, but will help to survive it. If your cat becomes a mother in the future, do not resort to hormonal drugs. This can negatively affect the health of future kittens.

If you did not have time to do sterilization before the first heat, it is better to wait this moment and have the operation when the cat’s body and behavior return to normal. Otherwise, there will be a risk of unnecessary blood loss during the procedure. It is not advisable to spay a cat while she is in heat, but it is possible if necessary. There are difficult cases when prolonged estrus is caused by problems with the reproductive organs, and the operation should help save the pet. But the final verdict on the possibility or impossibility of performing the operation must be made by a veterinarian.

Estrus is a physiological process that indicates that your cat’s body is ready to transition into adulthood. Growing up as a young cat brings inconvenience, but this is a sign that the pet is healthy, its body is stronger and developing normally. Support your furry ward and take care of her health in time so that the cat will spend the next years of her life in good health and delight you with her attention and communication.

When does the first estrus begin?

A cat's first heat usually begins at 6-9 months. It depends on the purr breed and living conditions. If you take a phlegmatic animal, then you can see a peculiarity in the period of the first estrus - 10-16 months.

Advice! If the first heat of a domestic cat is noticed earlier than four months or does not occur until a period of one and a half years. This is a reason to contact a veterinarian.

It is important to know that primary estrus is not a reason for an animal to mate. With normal physiological development, mating shifts 6 months later from the beginning of the primary estrus. During this time, the animal will become completely stronger and will be able to give birth to healthy offspring in the future.

Important! Experts advise skipping the initial 2-3 heats before mating.

Mating cats

For breeders of purebred cats, the question remains relevant: when to carry out the first mating? Veterinarians advise not to do this earlier than 10–15 months of life. By this time, the female’s body is fully formed, which makes it possible to obtain healthy offspring without defects. It is better to skip the first two heats. It is especially important to follow this rule if the female is small in size.

Mating is planned no earlier than the third heat.

Contact with the cat is planned approximately on the third day after the first symptoms of heat appear. The pet is ready for coitus if she tries to excite her partner and caresses him.

It happens that during mating, which takes place on the cat’s territory, signs of estrus disappear. This also happens due to stress. Once the cat gets used to it, the process will return to normal.

Mating in cats

Estrus frequency

How often does a cat go into heat? This is the question asked by every lover of four-legged friends who monitors its development and health. As a rule, the frequency of estrus depends on the characteristics of the breed. If you take the British Shorthair and the Siamese purr. The first is distinguished by infrequent estrus, unlike the second breed.

Basically, under normal living conditions, a cat comes into heat once every three months.
Another thing is a pet giving birth. The first estrus begins at 4-6 months after the kittens are born.
But, you need to take into account this fact if the kittens died or were taken away. The cat will be ready for mating before the time indicated above.

Violations

There are cats that show no symptoms of estrus. Typically, this happens in obese or overly weakened animals. In veterinary practice, this condition is called “anaphrodisia.” For this pathology, hormonal therapy is prescribed in the form of intramuscular injections.

If the heat lasts too long, this is also considered a violation. It is necessary to conduct a diagnostic study to determine the cause of the pathology. The most common problems are with the ovaries (inflammatory processes, cysts, neoplasms). Treatment consists of subcutaneous administration of estrogens and gestagens.

Heat

During estrus, the pet can cause a lot of trouble for the breeder. Therefore, it is important to know how long estrus lasts in cats. There is no clear answer to this question.

Here everything again depends on the characteristics of the breed. Experienced breeders note that the average estrus period lasts from 5 to 10 days.

It is worth paying attention if estrus is short or too long.
This may be the first signs of disease in an animal (thyroid gland, cyst, tumor).
If you suspect a health problem, contact a veterinarian immediately.

Advice! In order for the animal to feel calm and not annoy the owner during mating. You should contact a specialist who can help solve this problem.

Use of hormone-based medications

Mustachioed pets cope with this difficult time in different ways. Some need a little affection and attention to survive this period, while others suffer from unsatisfied desire, despite the efforts of their owners. If the usual methods of calming down are powerless, you will have to turn to special means, tablets, drops, options that help relieve tension. When mating is not planned, sterilization is the right option.

The principle of operation of drugs of this type

Only hormones, natural or synthesized, can effectively influence the onset of sexual heat. Progesterone enters the body during pregnancy. A dose of progestin preparations administered during the rest period suppresses the effect of follicle-stimulating hormone. Estrogen, which provokes sexual desire, does not enter the blood, and the period of sexual desire is blocked. If hormonal medications are used incorrectly, your pet may die.

Types of drugs

Hormonal preparations of this type are available in tablet form, as drops for internal use or application to the withers. An effective, high-quality product contains a complex of hormones. Veterinarians often prescribe the following:

“Stop-intim”, drops based on megestrol acetate, a synthetic analogue of progesterol, given orally with a treat, sugar or forcibly;
“Contrasex”, drops, tablets containing synthetic hormones acetomepregenol, ethinyl estradiol;
“Gestrenol” is a complex biohormonal preparation in the form of drops and tablets;
“Sex barrier” - mepregenol acetate plus ethinyl estradiol, liquid, tablets;
“Ovostop” is a complex of megestrol, proroxan, melatonin, drops on the withers.

Such drugs cannot be considered harmless drugs. Before starting use, you must carefully read the instructions.

Features of application

For health and safety reasons, it is best to consult your veterinarian first. Hormones are prescribed only to healthy animals; they are administered in strict accordance with the instructions. Progestins have many contraindications; a non-specialist cannot determine them by eye. You should not skip a dose or increase the dose to compensate for the missed dose of medication.

Non-extended-release medications must be taken for the entire prescribed period. Determining the dosage is the task of the veterinarian. Spontaneous use of hormonal contraceptives is unacceptable. It is forbidden to use progestin preparations during sexual heat, this is after the end of the active phase.

Hormones do not replace the sterilization procedure; their purpose is:

delay the onset of the active phase if pregnancy is contraindicated for your pet for some time, after recent childbirth, cesarean section, gynecological problems;
adjust the mating time, for example, until a suitable male is found;
prevent pregnancy if immediate sterilization is contraindicated.

Within 24 hours after an unwanted mating, progestins can prevent unplanned pregnancy.

How to determine the right day

Taking hormonal drugs in the active phase will be a disaster for the cat. The third day of the period is considered critical; the process enters the active phase. Many females experience a quiet, mild estrus, which begins almost asymptomatically.

An inexperienced owner may not pay attention to the signs: Murka becomes thoughtful and affectionate. An important point is the behavior when stroking the sacrum. The pet characteristically arches, throws back its tail, sexual activity is in full swing, progestins cannot be given. When there is no such reaction, the use of the medicine is acceptable.

Hormonal injections

The veterinarian sometimes recommends a hormone injection using a long-acting drug. Usually it is Covinan or Depo-Provera. The first is based on proligestone (synthetic progesterone), a steroid that inhibits the processes in the animal’s body that cause sexual desire, reducing the concentration of luteinizing hormone.

After discontinuation of the drug, fertility is restored. Injections are given according to a strict schedule to minimize side effects. If diarrhea, vomiting, or undesirable effects occur, the drug is discontinued.

Depo-Provera was originally developed as a female contraceptive, but has found use in veterinary medicine. The basis of the drug is medroxyprogesterone, a synthetic substance that can suppress ovulation. Available in the form of suspension and tablets. These medications should absolutely not be used during estrus. At the end of use, the ability to produce offspring is restored.

Nuances of sterilization

The most frequently asked question on the Mustachioed Pets websites and in the veterinary service: “Is it possible to sterilize a cat during heat?”

In order not to harm your beloved pet during sterilization, the following nuances are taken into account:

The operation takes place during the period of sexual rest. Two weeks before and after estrus;
To avoid breast cancer, sterilization occurs before the first estrus;
At the time of surgery, the cat should be 6-8 months old;
An animal is sterilized if it weighs at least 3 kg.

The above recommendations will help not only the cat, but also its owner, to get through the difficult period associated with the animal’s physiological estrus.

Prevention of pregnancy

The reality is that unless you are a professional purebred cat breeder, you should not allow your cat to mate.

We have a serious pet population problem in our country and it is highly recommended that the average cat owner spay and neuter their cats.

Most veterinarians suggest spaying your cat no later than six months. And a cat already in heat can be spayed, despite the slight increase in cost.

Additionally, spaying your cat will not only stop troublesome heat cycles, but may also prevent future health problems related to the reproductive organs.

If neutering your cat seems like a costly blow to your budget, some veterinarians offer low-cost, public-funded neutering options.

Or call your local animal welfare group and ask if they provide coupons for low-cost neutering at area veterinarians.

Your veterinarian can advise you on the most affordable options in your area, some of which cost a little more than your monthly cat food allowance.

How to stop

This period causes inconvenience for both the cat and its owner. Therefore, you need to think about how to alleviate her suffering. There are several ways.

To prevent estrus, you can sterilize your animal. Another option is hormonal drugs (Pillcan, Contrasex and others). They are sold at any veterinary pharmacy. But you shouldn’t give your cat hormones too often. It is better to do this no more than twice a year. Long-term use of such drugs increases the risk of developing ovarian and uterine tumors.

There are also special means to alleviate the pet’s condition during estrus. For example:

Bach drops. They have a calming effect, do not depress the nervous system, and do not contain artificial additives.
Fospasim (drops or injections). Facilitates the emotional and psychological state of the animal, effectively relieves anxiety. The components of a homeopathic medicine do not accumulate in the body.
Cat Baiyun. Aqueous infusion of medicinal herbs. Consists of natural ingredients: lemon balm, St. John's wort, thyme, sweet clover, valerian. Absolutely safe.

All of the above products have a mild effect and calm the cat. They can be added to food or given on the tip of your finger. But it should be borne in mind that the heat does not stop.

There are several other ways to distract the animal.

Night sleep. If you don't let your cat sleep during the day, then by night she will fall asleep and won't start making loud “concerts.”
Games. Outdoor games help distract you and help you get rid of excess energy.
Bathing. If you wet her tail or give her a full bath, she will start licking herself and become distracted.

Under no circumstances should you scold or punish your cat. Of course, a pet’s unwanted behavior and annoying meowing can irritate the owner. But screaming will only make the problem worse. The animal will suffer severe psychological trauma.

How many days does it last

The duration of estrus in cats varies from person to person and is determined by several factors. Among them:

Breed.
Season. In spring, sexual activity is increased.
Accommodations.
Age. In adulthood, estrus is shorter and occurs less frequently.
Physiological features.

On average, the duration of this period is from 5 days to two weeks. If less, then the reason may be underdevelopment of the ovaries or diseases of the thyroid gland.

The periods between heats also differ from cat to cat. In one individual, estrus occurs once a month, in another - only twice a year.