WHAT TO DO WHEN YOUR CAT IS IN HEAT

While the prospect of having your beloved furry little munchkin give birth to an adorable litter of fluffy kittens are indeed exciting, as seasoned cat parents, you are sure to know that dealing with your cat in heat can be tricky, to say the least. 

Cats in heat is natural and does not generally warrant any concern, but cats can experience several physical and behavioural changes while they are in heat.  Unspayed female cats experience their cat heat cycle when they are most fertile and ready for mating. Upon finding a suitable mate, the cat in heat can become pregnant shortly.

WHAT IS HEAT IN CATS?

Cats in heat is a natural process but dealing with your furry munchkin during this time can be challenging, making it important for cat parents to know what cats do when in heat, and how to relieve a cat in heat. Being in heat generally refers to the hormonal changes, also known as estrus or oestrus, in unspayed female cats that prepare them for breeding.

While in heat, female cats experience a fertile period in their reproductive cycle and actively start seeking a mate. Considering kittens are quick to mature, a female cat can experience her first cat heat cycle between the ages of six to ten months, which continues till they are old.

During heat, your cat may appear more affectionate, rubbing against her favourite people, as well as walls and furniture. Additionally, cat in heat also tend to vocalize and howl loudly to attract mates and also spray strong smelling urine frequently, which can be problematic.

SIGNS OF A CAT IN HEAT

A cat in heat can show drastic physical and behavioural changes. As a cat parent, being able to identify what cats do when in heat can allow you to understand them better and help avoid any problematic behaviour. There are obvious behavioural changes and characteristics of a cat in heat, such as pacing back and forth, incessantly yowling and meowing, assuming mating position, as well as being extra affectionate. Mentioned below are some the other signs of cat heat cycle:

• Behavioural changes
• Unusual vocalisations
• Licking genitals as well as frequently assuming a mating position
• Loss of appetite
• Urine spraying outside the litter box is a characteristic of a female cat in heat, as strong-smelling urine indicates availability to mate
• Begging to go outside to search for a mate
• Excessive grooming

HOW TO CARE FOR CATS IN HEAT

Cat in heat is normal. And there is not much that can be done for a cat in heat. But knowing how to calm a cat in heat or how to relieve a cat in heat, can help keep your kitty comfortable and improve any difficult behaviour or characteristics of a cat in heat, such as vocalisations and spraying. In addition to putting your feline in a relaxing environment with cat toys and scratching posts, sprinkling some catnip or using pheromone diffusers and sprays can help to distract your furry from what cats do when in heat.

TIPS TO COMFORT YOUR CAT IN HEAT

Mentioned below are some of the most effective ways to comfort your cat if you are wondering how to relieve a cat in heat and how to calm a cat in heat:

• Offer them a warm towel or blanket
• Keep the litter box clean
• Play with your cat
• Provide extra pets and attention
• Give her space when she wants it
• Consider spaying your cat if you do not intend to breed her

it is important to be patient with your cat and comfort her when she is in heat. Although it might appear challenging, employing ways to distract your fluffy munchkin to keep her mind off her body can help them. You can always consult your veterinarian for advice on what cats do when in heat or how to calm a cat in heat.