How to Calm a Cat in Heat
Documentation Download Documentation Download Documentation Once every three to four weeks, an un-spayed female cat will go into heat, which indicates that she is ready to mate. Typically, this consists of howling, screeching, writhing, and efforts to attract or flee from male cats. Calming the cat down is difficult, and more importantly, it is only a short-term solution. This is very normal and natural behavior for a cat in heat, no matter how bothersome it may be to the cat’s owner. If the situation becomes too difficult to bear, look for a long-term solution rather than a temporary cure.
- 1 Recognize when your cat is in heat by looking at her. Check to see if the behavior your cat is displaying is genuinely indicative of her being in heat and not a sign of illness. In heat, an unspayed cat will vocalize a lot, be restless, rub up against people and things, and roll about on the ground. Whenever you massage her lower back, she will respond by elevating her pelvis and moving her tail to one side
- This is her way of saying “thank you.”
- A cat’s usual mating season occurs between the months of spring and late summer. During this time of year, she will almost certainly go into heat
- Determine whether or not your cat is in heat. Symptoms of discomfort include restlessness, but not rubbing herself against anything or moving her tail to the side. Take her to the veterinarian to find out what’s wrong with her
- 2 Keep her away from other male cats. When your cat is in heat, she will get considerably more agitated if she is in the presence of other males. Do not let her go outdoors at any time, and make sure all windows and doors, including pet flaps, are closed and locked. You must keep her away from any male cats in order to keep her calm (and avoid the possibility of her being pregnant). When you isolate her, she will be more secure, as she may attempt to flee your home if she detects a guy outside.
- For male cats that live in the same house, contact a friend or pay a cat sitter to take him in for a couple of weeks while you are away. It is pretty clear that if the two cats remain in the same location, they will both act wild and will very probably end up mating. If male cats can be seen via a window, cover the window with drapes or a piece of cardboard to block their view.
- 3Provide your cat with a comfortable place to sit that is warm. Even while it is not guaranteed to work, some people have discovered that providing the cat with a heat pack or a warm, damp towel to sit on helps to keep her motionless and calm. Because you can rapidly reheat a microwaveable heat pack if your cat becomes agitated again, a microwaveable heat pack may be the most convenient alternative. An electric heat pad or blanket is also an excellent option
- 4 If catniponly is effective in calming your cat, use it. Catnip has a highly diverse effect on various cats. When fed catnip, some cats become calm and relaxed, while others become hyperactive and aggressive. If you are unsure of how your cat will react to catnip, you should avoid using this strategy. It has the potential to exacerbate the problem.
- Please keep in mind that this is only a temporary solution, but it may provide you with an hour or two of serenity.
- 5 Determine whether or not herbal therapies are beneficial. There are a variety of herbal medicines available on the market that are meant to relax cats. There have been some positive reports from cat owners, but there is no single cure that works for all cats. Furthermore, it is possible that your cat will not respond to any of the products listed. Purchase a selection of little samples and experiment with a variety of different cures. Once you’ve discovered a product that is effective for your cat, purchase greater quantities of it.
- Observe the directions on the package labeling. Depending on the cure, you may be instructed to add it to the cat’s water, massage a few drops into the cat’s hair, or use it as an air freshener. Do not utilize goods meant for human consumption, since these are likely to contain larger doses.
- 6Put Feliway to use in your home. Feliway is a synthetic cat pheromone that has a soothing, relaxing effect on cats. It is available in a variety of scents. This is not a quick solution, however, since it takes a number of weeks of exposure before the cats begin to settle down. You might want to consider putting in the Feliway diffuser at the beginning of breeding season if you know your cat isn’t spayed (spring). So that when she goes into heat, the Feliway will already be in her system because it has been building up over time. 7 Maintain the cleanliness of her litter box. When cats are in heat, they frequently scent mark with urine in order to attract males. It’s possible that keeping her litter box clean all of the time will encourage her to use it rather than scent marking your home. However, if she scent marks the place, clean and deodorize the area as soon as possible. Her desire to keep doing it will be fueled by the scent of pee she leaves behind.
- Ammonia-based cleaning solutions should not be used. It is also naturally occurring in urine, and the fragrance will urge her to mark that location once more.
- 8Spend time with your kitty. Playing with your cat can momentarily divert her attention away from howling, but she will almost always return to howling when you’ve finished. Even if your cat is already quiet enough to allow you to pet her or scratch her lower back, scratching or brushing her lower back might be more effective.
- 1st, spay or neuter the cat. Spaying a cat removes her ovaries, which stops her from going into heat and causing a heat cycle. In addition to preventing woman from becoming pregnant, it lowers her chance of developing some cancers and other disorders.
- Consider low-cost spay services if you are unable to finance the operation outright. Many clinics provide this procedure at a discounted rate since it helps to minimize the number of stray cats on the streets. Look up your location in one of the USDA’s databases, which may be found on their website. Even after the procedure, there is a slight risk that remaining ovarian tissue will cause the cat to go into heat again. If this occurs, seek the advice of a veterinarian.
- Consider low-cost spay services if you are unable to afford surgery. Because it helps to minimize the number of stray cats on the streets, several clinics provide this procedure at a discounted cost. Investigate the databases on the USDA’s website to find out where you live. However, it is possible that the cat will go into heat even after the procedure due to remaining ovarian tissue. If this occurs, seek the advice of a veterinary professional.
Create a new question
- QuestionIs it painful for my cat to be in heat while she’s pregnant? A veterinarian with over 30 years of expertise in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice, Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS, is a member of the British Veterinary Medical Association. Veterinary medicine and surgery were among the subjects she studied when she graduated with honors from the University of Glasgow in 1987. She has been employed at the same animal clinic in her hometown for more than two decades now. An Answer from a Veterinarian No, she is not in pain, despite the fact that it is quite typical for her to scream and yowl as if she were in anguish. This is simply her method of getting the attention of males
- Question How long does it take for a cat to become hot? A veterinarian with over 30 years of expertise in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice, Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS, is a member of the British Veterinary Medical Association. Veterinary medicine and surgery were among the subjects she studied when she graduated with honors from the University of Glasgow in 1987. She has been employed at the same animal clinic in her hometown for more than two decades now. An Answer from a Veterinarian This is really unpredictable. Depending on the cat, it can ‘call’ anywhere from one to seven days. If she doesn’t mate right away, she will come into heat again a few of weeks later…………………….. In this case, the entire cycle takes around three weeks
- Question and Answer At what age do cats typically go into heat for the first time? A veterinarian with over 30 years of expertise in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice, Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS, is a member of the British Veterinary Medical Association. Veterinary medicine and surgery were among the subjects she studied when she graduated with honors from the University of Glasgow in 1987. She has been employed at the same animal clinic in her hometown for more than two decades now. Cats often experience their first heat between the ages of 5 12 and 6 months, according to a veterinarian expert. This, however, is dependent on the weather and how simple it is for the cat to get to the food source. During the spring, for example, a well-fed cat may come into heat at the age of only 5 months
- How long should you keep a female cat separated from the rest of the household? A veterinarian with over 30 years of expertise in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice, Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS, is a member of the British Veterinary Medical Association. Veterinary medicine and surgery were among the subjects she studied when she graduated with honors from the University of Glasgow in 1987. She has been employed at the same animal clinic in her hometown for more than two decades now. An Answer from a Veterinarian Maintain isolation for your cat for the length of her heat, which lasts around three to five days. Check to see whether she is no longer in heat before letting her to mingle with other cats. To be certain that her heat is done, you may wish to wait a full week after her heat begins. Question How long does it take for a cat to go into heat for the first time? A veterinarian with over 30 years of expertise in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice, Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS, is a member of the British Veterinary Medical Association. Veterinary medicine and surgery were among the subjects she studied when she graduated with honors from the University of Glasgow in 1987. She has been employed at the same animal clinic in her hometown for more than two decades now. An Answer from a Veterinarian The true heat period lasts between 2 and 3 days, however some females can be in heat for as long as 5 days in exceptional cases. The whole length of the heat cycle is around 21 – 28 days, therefore you may expect her to repeat the heat cycle every 3 – 4 weeks. Question Is it possible to neuter a cat when she is in heat? A veterinarian with over 30 years of expertise in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice, Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS, is a member of the British Veterinary Medical Association. Veterinary medicine and surgery were among the subjects she studied when she graduated with honors from the University of Glasgow in 1987. She has been employed at the same animal clinic in her hometown for more than two decades now. An Answer from a Veterinarian Yes. When a female cat is in heat, the majority of veterinarians are pleased to neuter her. In contrast to dogs, however, this is not the case here. Because of the significant blood flow to the womb, it is advisable to wait until a female dog is no longer in heat before breeding her.
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About This Article
Summary of the ArticleXKeeping a cat in heat indoors and away from male cats that could startle her or attempt to conceive her is one method of keeping her calm and relaxed. Afterwards, place a heating pad or a nice blanket in her bed so that she may lie down and be comfortable and quiet. Always keep her litter box clean in order to avoid her from spraying inside your home, and if she does spray any part of your home, make sure that the area is fully cleaned so that no aroma is left behind. Petting, scratching, and combing her will help to keep her calm when she’s not in heat.
Continue reading to discover more about herbal and natural therapies from our co-author, who is a veterinarian.
The writers of this page have together authored a page that has been read 1,347,471 times.
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Summary of the ArticleXKeeping a cat in heat indoors and away from male cats that could startle her or attempt to conceive her is one method of keeping her quiet and tranquil. In order to keep her comfortable and peaceful, you should put a heating pad or a warm blanket in her bed for when she goes to sleep. Avoid her litter box clean in order to keep her from spraying inside your home, and if she does spray any part of your home, be sure to completely clean the area so that no aroma is left behind!
You may also offer her catnip if it generally helps to quiet her when she isn’t in heat.
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Extra Petting and Brushings During Heat Cycle
The stress of being in estrus might be alleviated for some cats by providing them just a little additional attention. Give your feline buddy some extra attention around the house when she’s in heat, and you may discover that it helps to calm her down and keep her stress levels under control as she gets older.
Give Your Cat a Getaway
Cats in heat may prefer to be left alone unless they are being courted by a possible suitor, in which case they may want attention.
She may be irritated or violent at times, but don’t take anything she says or does personally. Provide her with a cozy, private spot such as a cat tree or the top shelf of a closet where she can get away from the hubbub when she wants some quiet time.
Cats in Heat May Need Some Extra Playtime
For cats, the desire to mate is a natural impulse. Likewise, the desire to go hunting is strong. Make an effort to keep your cat active with interesting toys that will arouse her natural hunting instincts. It can divert her attention away from her other urges.
Secure the Perimeter
A cat in heat is a master escape artist who knows how to get away. Make sure your house is safe, and that any potential escape routes, including as windows, doggy doors, and readily opened screen doors, are closed off and secured.
Herbal Remedies for Cats in Heat
Whenever a cat is in heat, she becomes the ultimate escape artist. Take precautions to ensure the safety of your house by capping or capping off any potential escape routes, such as windows, doggy doors, or readily opened screen doors.
Play Calming Music During Your Cat’s Heat Cycle
Music isn’t just for humans; some animals find it to be quite enjoyable as well. Relax and enjoy the sounds of relaxing classical music, mellow jazz, or ambient electronic music in your house. What you never know is that it could assist your cat remain calm and that it might even cover part of the screaming.
Keep the Litter Box Clean
Cats like marking their territory, particularly when they are in heat. If you maintain your cat’s litter box clean and clear of cat pee, you’ll encourage him to use it instead of marking his territory on your carpet or sofa. Additionally, ammonia cleansers should be avoided since they have the potential to encourage spraying activity.
Spay Your Cat to Avoid Heat Cycle Issues
The majority of vets believe that spaying a cat when she is in heat is less than optimal. It is possible, but there is an elevated risk of surgical complications as a result of the procedure. If, on the other hand, you do not intend to breed your cat, you should consider spaying her. You’ll avoid having to cope with this problem in the future, and you’ll avoid the birth of unwanted litters as a result of your actions.
Be Patient When Cats Are in Heat
Cats in heat, according to the majority of vets, should not be spayed. Even if it is possible, there is a higher risk of surgical complications as a result. You should, on the other hand, consider spaying your cat if you have no plans to breed from her. You’ll avoid having to cope with this problem again in the future, and you’ll avoid the birth of unwanted litters as a result of your actions.
About the Author
Dr. Evan Ware works as a veterinary practitioner in the city of Phoenix, in the United States. The Ohio State University provided him with both his undergraduate and graduate degrees in microbiology, as well as his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Ware is now the Medical Director of University Animal Hospital (VCA) and the owner of two additional veterinary facilities, including Laveen Veterinary Center and Phoenix Veterinary Center. He received his veterinary degree from the University of Florida.
7 Ways to Calm a Cat in Heat (With Pictures)
A stressful moment for both your female cat and her human companions occurs when she goes into heat. The rush of hormones that tells your cat she has to go out and locate a male cat so she can start breeding babies will compel her to do so. While we can all agree that kittens are adorable, unexpected pregnancies are not something that responsible cat parents want to happen to their cats in any way. It is possible for cats to begin their heat cycles when they are 4 to 10 months old, and because cats are “seasonally polyestrous,” they can and will come into heat numerous times during the calendar year.
Each heat cycle might last anywhere from seven to ten days in length. Fortunately, there are a variety of different techniques and tactics for keeping your cat quiet when she is going through her period.
1. Keep your cat inside
Image courtesy of Alexas Fotos and Pixabay. When you feel your cat is about to go into heat, the first thing you should do is confine her to your home. Even if your female cats have been neutered, it is a good idea to keep them apart if you also have male cats in the house. In addition, your female cat will be more relaxed and comfortable if she is not continually inhaling and exhaling the pheromones and hormones emitted by any surrounding male cats. These will urge her to look for a male spouse in the future.
Maintaining her confinement also helps to avoid an unwanted pregnancy.
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2. Give your cat something warm to sit on
Image courtesy of Sasquillian and Pixabay. If you provide your cat with a warm and pleasant spot to sit while she is in heat, she will feel more comfortable and relaxed. In order to provide her with something to cuddle on, you can place a self-warming heat pad or an electric heat pad inside her bed. If you’re in a hurry, a hot water bottle or microwaveable heat pad would suffice.
3. Use a pheromone diffuser
There are a variety of diffusers available on the market, such as the Feliway, that emit synthetic cat pheromones into the environment. When used to soothe and relax cats, they are a fantastic alternative for when your cat is going through her period. This type of device can take several weeks to begin functioning properly, so purchasing one in the spring, when your cat’s mating season begins, and leaving it plugged in for the rest of the breeding season is recommended.
4. Use herbal remedies
Image courtesy of Lisa Zins on Flickr. Catnip, relaxing treats, or a combination of these are recommended. Rescue Remedy Natural Stress Relieffor Pets, Rescue Remedy Natural Stress Relieffor Cats, and Rescue Remedy Natural Stress Relieffor Dogs are all excellent solutions for assisting your cat in feeling more calm. You’ll be the best judge of if catnip has an effect on your cat, as some cats are completely uninterested in it! Others will experience a surge of energy followed by a significant decrease in their level of activity.
We urge that you consult with your veterinarian first to ensure that you are not allergic to any of the herbal medicines.
5. Spend more time with your cat
Image courtesy of AdinaVoicu and Pixabay. It’s possible that your cat may just enjoy you spending extra time with her while she’s in heat. Get cozy and put on a movie, play with toys you know she will enjoy, or treat her to a special treat bag. When it comes to making your cat feel relaxed and appreciated, nothing beats additional cuddling time.
6. Keep your cat’s litter box clean
Photograph courtesy of Leonora (Ellie) Enking through Flickr. Female cats in heat will scent mark in order to attract males, even if there are no males in the vicinity!
When your female cat is in heat, she may begin spraying pee in unexpected locations throughout the house. If you maintain the litter pan in your cat’s litter box as clean as possible, you can encourage her to use it rather than spraying throughout the house.
7. Spay your cat
PublicDomainPictures and Pixabay are both credited with this image. Our last recommendation is that you consult with your veterinarian about having your female cat spayed or neutered. This will prevent her from going into heat and will also alleviate any concerns about her becoming accidently pregnant in the future. Many doctors will suggest that if you do not want to use your female cat in an official breeding program, it is a good idea to have her spayed as soon as she reaches the appropriate reproductive age.
That’s all there is to it!
If she could, she’d express her gratitude to you for your assistance!
How To Help Calm Down A Cat In Heat: Calming Remedies
Your cat will go into heat if it hasn’t been fixed or spayed before this time. In other words, it will be entering the mating season and will be looking for a partner with whom to procreate. Regardless of the cat’s gender, the heat phase is a difficult time for both the cat and the cat’s owner. It is possible to have loud vocalizations as well as numerous sorts of troublesome conduct. When female cats are in heat, they prefer to vocalize, but male tomcats become more physical. They pee on carpets and furniture pieces, scratch things, and generally attempt to establish their territory in whatever manner they are able to do so.
Normally, calming down a cat is a simple process.
How To Help Calm Down Your Cat When It’s In Heat
Your cat will go into heat if it hasn’t been fixed or spayed before. As a result of this, it will begin to look for a partner with whom to procreate and will enter the mating season. Cats go through a time of heat regardless of their gender, which may be stressful for both cats and their human companions. A variety of undesirable behaviors, including loud vocalizations, may manifest. When female cats are in heat, they prefer to vocalize, but male tomcats are more physically aggressive during this time.
You will be unable to control your cat’s behavior if it is a female or a male cat.
When it comes to cats in heat, however, the process becomes a little more challenging.
Isolation
Keeping your cat away from other cats will be necessary. When a cat is in heat, other cats are able to detect the presence of the female. Any unfamiliar feline that wanders into your yard will be noticed by your furball. It’s likely that your pet will do all in its power to attract the other animal. Remove yourself from any interaction with the outside world. If you’re one of those pet parents that likes to take their cats on walks, you should pass on this. Install blinds or drapes on your windows to prevent your cat from noticing any potential mates waiting for it outside.
If you are unable to isolate your cat in its present environment, consider transporting it to a friend’s home for a few days instead. You may get a pet camera for the duration of your separation and use it to play recordings of your voice to your pet.
Keep The Kitty Warm
Get a warm towel, blanket, or cushion for the cat to sit on while you’re doing the dishes. You may either place it inside the cat bed or on top of the kitty to make it more comfortable. This procedure works on the vast majority of cats, but it does not imply that it will work on yours as well. Each feline creature is a one-of-a-kind individual. But you should give this relaxing approach a couple tries before dismissing it totally.
Distract The Cat
It is not necessary to transfer your cat to the other side of the planet in order to divert his or her attention. Something as simple as a play session with interactivecat toys may work wonders for a child’s behavior. Another approach is to begin caressing it by hand, using gentle strokes, or with a soft cat brush to get it used to being touched. The aim is to find something else to distract your pet’s attention while you are away.
Clean Up The House
Female cats are just as likely as male cats to mark their territory by peeing, spraying, and scent marking. Make a thorough cleaning of your home or apartment to ensure that any odors are eliminated. Additionally, empty the litter box. If you leave any fragrance traces in your home, the cat will not be able to relax and become quiet. Furthermore, any remaining odors will encourage it to continue marking the area as it sees fit. Even if you have an automated self-cleaning litter box, you should empty it of any waste that may have accumulated within.
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Find The Best Pheromone Sprays
There are a large number of pheromone sprays available on the market. If you are unable to convince your fluffy friend to rest, you may like to consider purchasing one of them.
Feliway Diffuser
When it comes to pheromone sprays for cats, the Feliway Diffuser is without a doubt the best-selling product. The pheromones are relaxing to felines of all kinds and ages, and they are especially comforting to kittens. They are quite effective in the treatment of stress, anxiety, and restlessness. Feliway will maintain the kitty’s calm and relaxation. It can be used when your cat claws the furniture, scent-marks your house, or begins to behave out in any other way that you find unacceptable. It’s also excellent for assisting your feline furball in acclimatizing to new environments, including those with unfamiliar people or other pets.
This Feliway product is not only effective when it comes to relaxing cats during periods of heat or in general, but it is also reasonably priced.
When your cat is in heat, it is critical that you assist her.
If the kitten does not find a mating mate within a couple of weeks, the heat cycle will begin again. Cats act out in a variety of ways during this time period, and it is critical to assist them in relaxing because they are unable to do it on their own.
How to Calm a Cat in Heat
The majority of cat owners are aware that when their female cat begins yowling and shaking her hindquarters back and forth, she has entered her heat cycle. The heat cycle, also known as estrus, begins about the time a kitten reaches the age of six months, but it can begin earlier or later depending on the cat. Your cat’s estrus cycle is natural and will not harm him or her. You may help her through this phase by employing a variety of techniques, including providing her with additional love, attention, and exercise, as well as setting aside time for her to be alone.
- Estrus is the term used to describe the heat cycle.
- Give your cat more attention while she is going through her heat cycle to help her relax.
- Allow her to rest her head on your lap.
- Designate a comfortable space for her near you on the sofa or on the arm of your favorite chair in your living room.
- During her heat cycle, a cat’s degree of hostility and tension will naturally increase, which is normal.
- Physical activity and fun are excellent diversions for your cat while she is going through her heat cycle.
- To keep your cat busy, try giving him an interactive toy like a feather dangling from a twig.
- Using a combination of playing with your cat while also keeping toys available for them to play with on their own might be effective.
Allow cats isolation and solitude
Your cat may prefer isolation during her estrus cycle, even if she is generally quite active and approaches playing with a lot of enthusiasm. Make a secure haven for her to take root, such as a towel-lined box in a closet, an elevated sleeping spot on a high shelf, or her own cat tree. During her estrus cycle, she may want to be alone herself. Image courtesy of puflic senior/iStock/Getty Images. Make sure to keep her indoors and away from other cats at all times. Make sure that any escape is safe by closing any doggy doors, windows, and screen doors, among other things.
Local tom cats may gather to court your cat when she is in estrus; if more than one cat comes up for courting, a fight may break out, exacerbating your cat’s already-heightened mood of dissatisfaction with the world around her.
If your cat is in heat, it’s natural for her to begin urinating in her territory (your house) in order to seek male attention.
Keep your cat’s litter box clean — even more than usual — to prevent her from marking other areas of your home when she is in heat.
If your cat is unable to detect their own scent in their box, they will mark the same territory over and over again rather than exploring new ones. Keep in mind that your cat is only doing what comes naturally to him and is not upset with you.
Schedule a veterinarian appointment
During the period of estrus, your cat may not behave in the manner of her usual self. iStock/Getty Images image courtesy of Sharaf Maksumov You may notice that your cat is not acting like herself at all while she is in estrus, which can be distressing. Don’t let it go to waste. With tolerance and composure, approach your cat’s altered behavior; this will be good to both you and your cat. Make an appointment with your veterinarian to get your cat spayed. This will prevent future heat cycles and undesired pregnancies.
How to calm a cat in heat
Take note: If you discover your cat with her buttocks up in the air, her tail wagging from side to side, and her meowing loudly, she is ready to mate with another cat. (BestReviews)
How to help a cat in heat
The cackling, the restlessness, and the out-of-character ankle massages were all signs of something wrong. If your cat hasn’t been spayed, there are unmistakable signals that she is about to mate. Everybody might be under a lot of stress during this particular period. While the loud crying might keep you up at night, it’s possible that your cat is in discomfort or uncomfortable. Fortunately, there are techniques you can do to calm your cat and ensure that both parties experience the least amount of tension and pain.
What happens when a cat is in heat
In the case of a female cat that has not been spayed, a “heat” cycle refers to the regular reproductive cycle. While there is no established period of time during which a cat might be in heat, the average is seven days — but it can go as long as 19 days in some cases. Once the cat is pregnant, this may occur as frequently as every two to three weeks until the animal is no longer impregnated. The term “in heat” refers to a cat’s estrus cycle, which is when they are most active. This is the time period during which you will notice a shift in your cat’s demeanor and behavior.
- Cats can begin going into heat cycles as early as four months of age and are capable of becoming pregnant far into their adult lives, however veterinarians urge that cats do not become pregnant after five or six years of age (for their own sake).
- Some of these indications are immediately noticeable, while others are less so.
- Caterwauling is one of the most evident symptoms when a woman is pregnant.
- Wailing functions as a mating call in this particular instance.
- It’s possible that she’s rubbing herself against surfaces in order to leave a mark on them as well.
For the reason that she may experience swelling and discomfort in her penile tissues throughout this period. A desire to get away: She is looking for a partner, and she wants one right away! Your cat may try dashing out of open doors in the hopes of meeting a tomcat with whom to mate in the future.
How to handle a cat in heat
Because your cat is experiencing discomfort during this time, make sure you provide her with plenty of attention. Even while not all cats will respond positively to this, if your cat is responsive to brushing and stroking, try to give her a little more than normal during her period. Because stroking animals has been connected to anxiety alleviation, it can be beneficial for both of you.
Create a calm environment
There are a variety of approaches you may use to create a relaxing environment for your cat. You may buy in diffusers that release a feline smell hormone, or you can experiment with playing music that is intended to soothe cats. Your cat should have an indoor or safe location where she may relax and unwind, away from the rest of the world, if possible. This is most likely what your cat want the most. It’s also the final thing you should do before going to bed. You want to prevent becoming pregnant unexpectedly.
Maintain tight control over her, or let her to explore a secure yard or “catio,” as appropriate.
In order to exhaust your cat, engage in some high-energy playtime with her, preferably with some toys to excite and distract her from what you’re doing.
If your cat currently gets this amount of playing on a daily basis, add an additional 15 to 30 minutes on top of that.
Keep the litter box clean
Cats are extremely picky when it comes to having a clean bathroom (and with good reason). Cats can become agitated even when their litter box is up to par, and this can happen at any moment. Make careful to check on the litter box on a daily basis. By doing so, you will reduce the likelihood of your cat spraying pee throughout the home, something cats are prone to doing while they are pregnant. This is consistent with the goal of keeping your cat comfortable. While we can’t tell for definite whether or not cats are in pain while they’re in heat, it’s clear that they aren’t comfortable based on their cacophonous howling.
In addition, you may get an electric heating pad; just be sure to keep an eye on your cat while it’s being used!
Catnip and calming treats are examples of herbal medicines, with the latter generally including magnesium, L-Theanine, colostrum, and/or melatonin as active ingredients.
We do not advocate utilizing essential oils since concentrated essential oils are hazardous to cats and should not be used on them. Any treats or medicines that include a high concentration of essential oils should be checked with a veterinarian before being used.
Consider spaying your cat
Having a clean bathroom is something that cats are extremely particular about (and with good reason). An unclean litter box can cause stress to a cat at any hour of the day or night. It is important to keep an eye on the litter box on a regular basis. Taking these steps can reduce the likelihood of your cat spraying pee throughout the home, which cats are prone to doing when they are pregnant. As long as your cat is comfortable, this is a good thing! If cats are in heat, we can’t tell if they are in agony, but judging by their caterwauling, we may assume they aren’t in the best of spirits.
You may also invest in an electric heating pad, but make sure to keep an eye on your cat while it is being used.
Catnip and soothing treats are examples of herbal therapies.
Due to the fact that concentrated essential oils are hazardous to cats, we do not advocate using them.
Remedies to Calm a Female Cat in Heat
Ithomas Northcut/Digital Vision/Getty Images & Creative Commons If you have a female cat, you should expect her to go into heat at least a few times every year until she is spayed. Heat, also known as estrus, can continue for up to a week and is characterized by considerable behavioral changes, such as agitation, attention-seeking behavior, and anxiety, among other things. Maintaining your cat’s calm throughout the summer heat will benefit you both.
Step 1
Check for evidence of heat to help rule out the potential that her symptoms are caused by something else. Cats in heat vocalize excessively, get restless, brush up against people and things, and roll about on the floor, among other symptoms of the condition. In addition, if you touch your cat’s lower back, she will respond by elevating her pelvis and adjusting her tail to one side in response.
Step 2
Increase the amount of affection and attention you give your cat. You will not only relax and comfort her via physical touch, but by stroking and caressing her, you will also be able to relieve her restlessness and overactive behavior.
Step 3
New toys and interesting play will help to keep your picky kitty entertained. This may assist her in diverting her attention away from her emotional anguish and her urge to mate. It will also provide her with a constructive outlet for all of her pent-up energy.
Step 4
Secure your cat’s doors and windows at all times to keep him safe from male cats in the area, if possible. If at all possible, keep windows closed to avoid your cat from staring out the window and being upset by the outside world.
Step 5
If you think your pet needs medical attention, see your veterinarian. Your veterinarian may be in a position to provide your cat with a hormone inhibitor or other medicine to alleviate her symptoms and calm her down if you are unable to endure your kitty’s heat-cycle behavior.
Certain items in this category may be purchased at pet stores, but they should only be used after speaking with your veterinarian first.
Step 6
Spay your cat to ensure that heat signs are no longer present within a few days of the treatment. Spaying your cat includes removing her ovaries and uterus in order to prevent her from becoming pregnant in the future. While spaying is not typically suggested during pregnancy owing to the increased risk of severe bleeding, your veterinarian may be willing to conduct the treatment throughout the period of pregnancy. This is a long-term solution for relaxing your cat while she is in heat. Prior to making any dietary, pharmaceutical, or physical activity changes for your pet, consult with your veterinarian.
References ResourcesTips
- In order to eliminate heat symptoms in your cat, spay him or her as soon as possible after the surgery. In order to avoid future estrus and conception, your cat’s ovaries and uterus are surgically removed. The treatment may be performed by your veterinarian even though spaying is not typically suggested during heat owing to the increased risk of heavy bleeding. This is a long-term solution for relaxing your cat while she is in season. Prior to making any dietary, medication, or physical activity changes for your pet, always consult your veterinarian. If you have any questions about your pet, please consult with a vet. References ResourcesTips
Bio of the AuthorSandra Ketcham is a writer and editor with over two decades of experience working for major websites and publications. Some of her work has appeared in print and online magazines such as “The Atlanta Journal-Constitution,” “The Tampa Bay Times,” Visit Florida, “USA Today,” AOL’s Gadling, and “Kraze Magazine.”
My cat is in heat, what do I need to do?
It might be difficult to coexist with a cat that is in heat. In this post, we’ll go over how to recognize the symptoms, how long they last, and what you can do to make life better for your cat when she’s in heat, both for her and for yourself.
What is ‘heat’, and how long does it last in cats?
Heat is the stage of a female cat’s reproductive cycle during which she seeks to become pregnant; it is also known as the fertile time. If your cat is 6-9 months old, she will typically go into heat for the first time, however some kittens may go into heat at 4 months or even as late as 12 months, depending on when they were born. This is due to the fact that cats are more likely to go into heat during the months with the most hours of daylight. Your cat will typically go into heat every two or three weeks from spring to fall, however if she lives inside, she may have unexpected heat cycles throughout the year as a result of artificial lighting.
- It is at this period, which lasts one or two days, that your cat’s behavior begins to alter. Heat: This is the moment of maximum transformation, and your cat will be urgently seeking a mate throughout this period. In most cases, heat lasts between 2 and 6 days, although it can last as long as 12 days. The 8-15 day interval between two heats is of particular interest. Anoestrus: This is the resting period, which normally lasts for three or four months during the coldest months of the year.
Following this introduction, we’ll go over all of the changes you’ll observe in a cat that’s about to give birth and what to do if your own cat is experiencing these changes.
How do you know that your cat is in heat?
Despite the fact that cats do not bleed while they are in heat, the indicators are rather obvious:
- When a cat is in heat, she does not bleed, but the indicators are very obvious: she will:
Your cat is in heat: How to best look after her
If your cat is in heat, knowing what to do to keep her (and yourself) comfortable during these trying times is critical information. Trying different things can help you figure out what works best for you, and all of the tips below will be beneficial:
- You may assist her stay engaged by making a big deal over her, stroking her hair, and playing games with her
- Heat can help to reduce heat-related behavior. The use of a warm quiet room, placing a blanket or one of those bean bags that you warm in the microwave next to her, and other measures can be beneficial. Reduce tension by using cat pheromone sprays, diffusers, or collars (which replicate the pheromones generated by cats to relax themselves, among other things)
- More frequent cleaning of her litter pan, as well as removal of any traces of pee she may have left throughout the home, is recommended, since failure to do so may encourage her to spray more frequently. Odor removal using enzyme cleansers is quite effective
- Nevertheless, they are expensive.
These suggestions will assist you in controlling your cat’s behavior while she is in heat. If you don’t want to have kittens, though, what should you do? To avoid the inconveniences we’ve discussed above and to avoid having kittens, the best thing to do is to sterilise your cat as soon as possible. This will reduce the likelihood of mammary cancer (by 95 percent if done before her first heat cycle and by 85 percent if done in between the first and second cycles). Choosing to sterilise your kitten is a personal decision, but there are special foods that can assist you in keeping her healthy throughout this new period of her life.
Despite the fact that, as previously said, sterilisation is the greatest option if you do not wish to have kittens.
How To Help A Cat In Heat – 8 Steps You Can Do To Help Your Female Cat
When a cat is in heat, it is difficult for her to remain calm, and it is much more difficult for her owner to maintain control. The most common indicators of a cat in heat are primarily sobbing and a behavior that suggests that the female cat may attempt to flee with male cats. For some people, a cat’s behavior can be a source of anxiety. Nonetheless, your cat’s behavior in this manner is considered to be typical and usual for him to do. However, if it becomes too hard to bear, seek a long-term solution.
If your cat is more than 5-6 months old, you may be experiencing this problem.
As a result, finding long-term solutions might be beneficial for both you and your cat.
Here are some examples of ways that you should consider:
1) Check for the signs
Check to see whether any of your cat’s behaviors are genuinely indicative of her being in heat and not merely unwell. The symptoms include, for example, rubbing against people and objects, rolling on the floor, and yowling the majority of the time. Between late summer and early spring, it is probable that cats will be exposed to high temperatures. If you are unable to make a decision, you should take her to the veterinarian to find out what is wrong with her.
2) Give her love and attention
At this time, spend time with your cat and pay attention to her. There are other methods for calming your cat, but this is the most crucial and most successful. Allow her to sit in your lap as you brush or pet her. Your affection will assist her in calming down and also in reducing her level of tension. The main goal is to divert her attention away from the mating ritual. Sometimes, simply being in your presence might help to keep her calm. Cat toys are frequently effective in diverting her attention away from her problems.
3) Keep her warm and fuzzy
Maintain the optimal temperature for your cat. This will be of the most use to her if she has something warm to sit on. Alternatively, you may offer her with something warm to sit on, such as a damp towel or a heat pad. As a bonus, it aids in keeping her motionless. Additionally, an electric heat pad and blanket may be beneficial for your cat. Protect her litter box clean and the smell mark away from her to keep her from going insane.
4) Make sure, your cat stays away from male cats
Allowing your cat to go outside while she is in heat will help to prevent her from being pregnant. Ensure that she remains calm and that she is not allowed to go outside, since this will result in her mating with male cats. If she discovers the presence of a male cat in the vicinity, she may attempt to flee and may even bring the cat’s attention to herself. As a result, putting on the blinders and closing the doors and windows will be the right technique to keep her from mating.
5) Look for herbal solutions
Purchase a few tiny samples of several herbal medicines for your cat and test them out to determine which one works best for her. Find the product that is most effective for your cat and begin applying it on her. Once you have determined which one is the finest for your cat, get a greater quantity of it.
It should be noted that herbal remedies should only be used after consultation with a veterinarian. It is best not to use any human drugs. It is possible that your cat will be harmed as a result of the larger dose.
6) Spay Your Cat
By spaying your cat, you may provide her with a long-term option to keep her out of the heat. Her ovaries and uterus will be removed during the procedure, which will prevent her from producing excessive heat and having undesired litters in the long term. Pets that have been spayed or neutered are less likely to get cancer or other disorders. Furthermore, there is a small risk that your cat will go into heat following the procedure despite the precautions used. If this occurs, contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.
7) Use Feliway
Feliway is a phrase that you might be acquainted with. Exactly like a chemical that cats emit through glands on their faces when they are feeling relaxed and wish to communicate with other cats in a surrounding place, this product works in the same way. Feliway is a natural cat tranquilizer that helps cats relax and reduce tension and anxiety. As a result, it allows the cat to be more relaxed at times of high heat.
8) Use catnip only if it calms your cat down
Catnip is a plant that belongs to the mint family. When cats are given catnip, some become calm and relaxed, while others react in a completely different manner. Some cats may become aggressive and hyperactive as a result of this. Keep in mind that this may make the condition worse for certain cats as well. As a result, it is vital to keep track of whether it is effective for your cat or not. If it does, that’s fantastic news for you! Above all, keep in mind that heat in cats is a natural process, and there is nothing you can do to stop it other than to exercise patience.
Ashton Blagden is a Community Manager at Dealslands.co.uk, where he spends his time helping others.
He spends his spare time writing when he gets the opportunity to do so.
How To Stop A Cat in Heat from Meowing And Yowling
During their period of heat, cats exhibit a variety of behavioral changes. They have mood swings, are adamant about leaving the house, and become excessively outspoken in public. A female cat who yowls continuously throughout the day and night is most likely in estrus. She’s making a public announcement about her availability to tomcats in the area. Your cat has a biological need to mate, and her inability to do so goes against her fundamental instincts and is distressing to you. You can divert your cat’s attention with play, entertaining activities, and affection.
Avoid deviating from your regular schedule, since cats in heat might get disturbed if you do.
If you choose not to do so, you will have to put up with a certain amount of vocalization in your life. Make every effort to keep your cat as comfortable as possible throughout these hormonal surges. As a result, your cat’s ability to generate noise will be reduced.
Why Is My Cat Meowing Non-Stop All of a Sudden?
If your cat is continuously talking to you, it is most likely attempting to communicate something essential to you. A female cat that has not been spayed is most likely in heat, whether she is hungry or agitated. This continual vocalization is an attempt to attract intact males, which is why it is so loud. If you’re not sure whether or not your cat is in heat, look for the following indicators:
- Mood fluctuations
- Loss of appetite
- Constant marking
- Excessive grooming of the genitals
- Inability to settle
- Desperation to leave the house
- And other symptoms
A cat that is in heat must be kept inside. It doesn’t take long for a tom and a mate to be found, which frequently results in pregnancy. Unfortunately for the owners, this means that their pets will be meowing and yowling for an extended amount of time.
Why Do Cats Make Weird Noises at Night?
A cat in heat will be most talkative after dark, which means your cat will produce loud, ear-piercing wails while she is in heat. To the untrained ear, it appears as though your cat is in distress. Caterwauling is the term used to describe this yowling sound. Caterwauling is an unambiguous signal to other tomcats in the area. If any male cats are looking for a mate, your cat is signaling that she is available. Caterwauling is more common at night, when the streets are mostly calm and vacant. The act of caterwauling does not serve as a one-way communication channel, as male cats will answer by meowing repeatedly.
My Cat is in Heat and Won’t Shut Up
If your cat is in heat, she will instinctively make a lot of noise. When a cat is in heat, verbalizing comes as naturally as breathing. Prepare yourself for a few restless nights ahead. When a cat is in heat, she may demonstrate spurts of love, which indicates that she is more playful. Tire your cat out before bed so that you have a better chance of having a peaceful night. Besides that, there are certain things you may do to calm your cat down. The goal is for your cat to be as peaceful and comfortable as possible at all times.
The following approaches will help you lessen your vocalization:
Stick To Routine
A consistent, predictable schedule is essential for all cats, and this is especially true for a female cat in heat. As the cat’s hormonal system is working overtime during estrus, she is more susceptible to being agitated and unhappy than usual. While your cat is in heat, make sure you feed her and play with her at the appropriate times of day. It’s quite OK for her to be uninterested. You should simply verify that she is aware that nothing has changed. You should avoid causing your cat anxiety since this will result in her meowing nonstop as she seeks comfort.
Unsanitary environments are a major source of stress in cats.
Distraction
When a cat is in heat, she only has one thing on her mind, and you must do all you can to keep her distracted. Treat-based puzzles have the potential to divert a cat’s attention away from the task at hand. The prospect of receiving a reward may be both motivating and distracting. She may become quieter and more attentive when she is thinking about meals. Food may not be as effective as it should be since cats in heat have a lower appetite and are less interested in eating than they should be.
While in heat, cats can become aggressive and frustrated, which can lead to fights.
This will keep you from pacing, which is especially useful at night.
With love, you may divert your cat’s attention. Don’t go too far because the cat will already be stressed, and any further handling will just aggravate the situation. It should be possible to hear nothing but pleased purring if you find the proper balance between the two.
Calming Music and Scents
The first step in keeping your cat quiet is to play some music for him. Using cat-specific music, according to the Journal of Kitty Medicine and Surgery, can help calm and soothe a stressed or agitated feline, decreasing her need to express herself verbally. You may also use Feliway, which has been shown to have soothing characteristics, to appeal to yourcat’s sense of scent. Aromatherapy products like as essential oils, frankincense, lavender, and scented candles can also be used to calm a cat’s anxiety.
How To Stop A Cat’s Heat Cycle
In the world of medicine, there is no such thing as a “cat in heat treatment.” There will be no medications, vitamins, or herbal therapies to bring the sequence to a close. Neither mating nor spaying your cat will bring an end to your cat’s heat cycle. Companion Animal suggests that cats be spayed or neutered before they reach puberty. A recent study published in The Journal of the American Veterinary Association found that early spaying had some health benefits for dogs. Keeping your cat indoors, especially in a darkened environment with low light, will help to delay the beginning of estrus for a short period of time.
However, it is not a long-term solution that is sustainable.
Due to the fact that outdoor cats receive more sunlight and hence enter estrus earlier than indoor cats, this will stimulate her to go into heat.
A cat in heat has a swollen, enlarged uterus, which makes surgery more difficult and increases the risk of problems in the case of pregnancy.
Simulating Mating
A pressure point in the genitals of a female cat in heat is present. Once she has been aroused, this leads her to believe that she has mated. The end of her heat cycle will signal the beginning of her estrus cycle, which will begin after delivering birth or when her next planned cycle begins. You might, on the other hand, attempt to deceive your cat into believing she has mated. If you desire to imitate mating in your cat, you should follow the methods outlined below:
- Take a Q-Tip and a pair of gloves and start cleaning. Clean and lubricate the Q-Tip once it has been sterilized
- Make sure your cat is on the ground
- Soothe your cat to the point when she is fully at ease. Keep an eye on your cat until she begins to squat and exhibit herself in order to induce mating
- Incorporate the lubricated Q-Tip into the cat’s vaginal opening with gentle pressure. If necessary, scruff the cat’s neck with your fingers. A tomcat would bite the neck of a human to keep them from escaping
- This resembles their behaviors. Using a slow rotation in a clockwise manner, or pulling it in and out, clean the Q-Tip.
Completing these actions should take no more than two minutes. A howl will be heard from your cat, and he or she will withdraw away from the Q-Tip and maybe roll around on the floor. Mating has taken occurred, according to her estimation. Another option is to set up a date with a man who has undergone an orchidectomy. This cat will continue to be sexually active and will begin mating. The outcome will be the same as that obtained with the Q-Tip approach. In the near term, this should stop your cat’s vocalizations, but it may also cause the appearance of indicators of a phantom pregnancy.
Phantom Pregnancy in Cats
When a cat ovulates but does not get pregnant, this is known as phantom pregnancy (pseudopregnancy). The cat’s hormones are causing her to believe that she is in fact pregnant. When this occurs, the cat will exhibit the same behavioral changes as if she were actually pregnant. Your cat will become more friendly and will exhibit nesting tendencies as a result of this.
Additionally, she may not want to be in the company of male cats. One-time pseudopregnancies do not necessitate the use of medicines. After approximately three weeks, your cat’s behavior will return to normal.
Will My Cat Stop Meowing After Mating?
In the case of cats, phantom pregnancy (also known as pseudopregnancy) occurs when they ovulate but do not get pregnant. She believes she is pregnant because of the cat’s hormones. Whenever this occurs, the cat will exhibit the same behavioral changes as if she were actually pregnant. When your cat is in a good mood, it will also show signs of nesting tendencies. Her companionship with male cats may also be rejected. There is no medicine required for one-time pseudopregnancies. After approximately 3 weeks, your cat’s behavior will return to normal.
- Higher levels of hunger
- Greater levels of attachment towards people
- Swollen stomach
- Bright, visible nipples (pinking up)
- Activity associated with nesting
In around 60 days, a pregnant cat will give birth to her brood of kittens. The usual litter size is four puppies, although it can range from four to twelve. Kittens are not allowed to be removed from their mother for the first 8 weeks of their lives.
Is My Male Cat in Heat?
Male cats are not subjected to heat cycles. Male cats who are continually meowing and yowling cannot be linked to the female cat’s estrus. Intact male cats never lose their drive for procreation, which can be difficult for an intact tomcat. It is possible that this behavior is connected to a desire to mate. Neutering a male is highly suggested unless you intend to breed from him. As a result of this surgery, most male cats become calmer and less territorial, which reduces the likelihood that your cat may travel for long distances and become lost or injured.
In most cases, spaying your cat is the only permanent solution, but if that isn’t an option, provide your cat with comfort and distractions.