Being “in heat” or “in season” refers to the oestrus cycle of an unspayed female cat, marking the fertile stage when she can conceive. During this time, your cat’s behaviour often changes dramatically, and she may actively seek out a tom cat for mating.
If your cat is unspayed or you plan to breed her, recognising when she is in heat is vital. It lets you monitor her fertility and helps you prevent unwanted litters by keeping her indoors and away from male cats during these times.
Below, we explore the feline heat cycle in detail, its signs, and responsible management.
A cat’s first heat signals sexual maturity. Most kittens experience it between six and twelve months, but certain breeds, such as the Siamese and Burmese, may reach this stage as early as four months. However, breeding should never take place before the cat is at least one year old, preferably two, to ensure health and maturity.
Unlike unspayed bitches which usually cycle just once or twice a year, queens can come into heat every two to three weeks, especially in spring and summer when daylight hours are longer. This frequent cycle can make managing an unspayed cat challenging, as she remains fertile and receptive to mating throughout these periods.
The oestrus phase—the time when a female cat is fertile—typically lasts between five and ten days. If she does not conceive or is not spayed, this cycle repeats regularly throughout the breeding season.
Cats in heat commonly display a distinct range of behaviours and physical cues. Here are key signs to watch for:
These behaviours are natural mating instincts. Understanding them helps you care for your cat thoughtfully and keep her safe.
The only sure way to prevent your cat from cycling is to have her spayed. Spaying not only prevents heat cycles and unwanted litters but also promotes longer, healthier lives by reducing risks of certain diseases.
If you do not wish to breed from your cat, keeping her indoors during heat cycles is vital to avoid accidental pregnancies. Ensure windows and doors are secured so she cannot escape, and keep her away from unneutered males. Interestingly, male cats nearby can trigger or induce heat cycles in unspayed females, so limiting such exposure even when she is not in heat helps reduce repeated cycles.
Should you plan to breed ethically, do so responsibly with proper planning, health checks, and consultation with a vet or reputable breeders. Always avoid accidental matings to promote good animal welfare.
Veterinary guidance in the UK typically recommends spaying from around four to six months of age, before the first heat cycle. Early spaying is generally safe and helps prevent unwanted behaviours and health issues.
If your cat has already come into heat, consult your vet for advice on timing the procedure and managing symptoms.
Sign | Description |
---|---|
Increased Vocalisation | Loud, persistent meows or howls to attract mates |
Restlessness | Pacing, agitation, attempts to escape outside |
Increased Affection | Clinginess, rubbing against people or objects |
Characteristic Posture | Rear raised, tail held aside exposing vulva |
Territory Marking | Spraying or scent marking to signal readiness |
Excessive Grooming | Licking around genital area |
Attempting to Roam | Showing desire to go outdoors to find a mate |
If you do not plan to breed, have your cat spayed to prevent future heat cycles and unwanted litters. Meanwhile, provide her with a calm indoor environment, plenty of attention, and safety from outside risks.
Consult your vet if you notice unusual signs such as vaginal discharge, lethargy, or changes in appetite beyond what’s typical for heat behaviour. These may signal health issues rather than just oestrus.
Responsible pet ownership means considering the long-term health and welfare of your cat, including spaying at an appropriate age to avoid repeated heat cycles and unintended pregnancies.
Raising awareness of the feline heat cycle supports better care and happy pets.