How to Calm a Cat in Heat

If you want your cat to feel comfortable and calm in this difficult period, get acquainted with the tips from our article.

5-Minute Crafts put together a guide that will help you understand what your pet is going through.

At what age a cat’s estrus begins

The term “estrus” refers to when a cat is fertile (capable of getting pregnant) and ready to mate. This natural instinct greatly influences the behavior of a pet, changing the nature and manner of its behavior. There are 4 phases to the cycle a cat goes through when it’s in heat:

• Proestrus: At this stage, which lasts 1-2 days, a cat is not yet ready to mate but is attracting male cats.
• Estrus: At this stage, which lasts about a week, a cat will show all the signs of being in heat, as she is ready to mate.
• Interestrus: If a cat hasn’t mated or become pregnant, she enters this phase. She won’t show any signs of being in heat.
• Anestrus: This is the last stage, a dormant period of a cat’s reproductive system.

If you decide not to spay your cat, keep in mind that cats can go into heat as early as 4-5 months of age (like with the Siamese or Oriental Shorthair). Other breeds can experience it at 10 months old. It’s not recommended to let your cat get pregnant during the first heat, as your cat’s body is still in the growth phase and pregnancy can be problematic.

The duration of estrus in cats can vary from 1 to 20 days. On average, this period lasts about a week. Your cat can have up to 5 litters in a year. Interesting fact: the same litter of kittens can have more than 1 father.

Signs and symptoms that your cat is in heat

You can tell if your cat is in heat by looking at the following signs:

• They have excessive vocalization.
• They’re super affectionate. Cats in heat will rub against any surface, including you, to spread their individual scent. They arch their backs, roll on the floor, and try to attract attention in every possible way.
• She wants out of the house.
• They show excessive cleanliness.
• They show a loss of appetite. Keep an eye on your pet’s appetite, as this behavior should last no more than 2 weeks.
  
  

How to calm your cat in heat

This is a natural process in the life of every cat. Estrus usually doesn’t cause pain. However, it’s worth knowing how to behave with your pet during this period in order to make it as comfortable as possible for both of you.

• If a cat’s pregnancy is not in your plans, keep your cat away from male cats. At this time, she will try to run away and look for a partner for mating. Be sure to block all possible escape routes.
• Provide your cat with extra space to rest. It’s good if these are warm places (electric blankets are also suitable).
• Keep your cat’s litter box clean.
• Give your cat extra attention to help ease the stress of estrus.
• By providing space for playing and displaying predatory behavior, you can temporarily help your cat calm down and be distracted.
• If your cat is sensitive to the effects of catnip, then this herb may help calm her down for some time.
• Be patient. Cats that are noisy, aggressive, and prone to escape can be annoying, but it’s important to be patient with your pet. The cat is not to blame for the fact that her behavior is controlled by instincts. A little patience and care on your part will help her get through this period with minimal stress and discomfort.