How to Deal With a Female Cat in Heat

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A female cat will come into heat (estrus) at least three times a year for roughly two-week cycles. During each cycle your cat will display "abnormal" behavior. She may be restless, easily upset and highly vocal. This guide will help you identify the signs of a cat in heat and to deal with her during that time.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Dealing With A Cat In Heat

Step1

First you will need to Identify if your cat is in heat. The signs of estrus are fairly easy to recognize. Your cat will hold her tail to the side and raise her hind end. She will also be prone to agitated behavior, such as hind-leg "treading" movements, rolling or rubbing on the floor, being much more vocal than usual and appearing overly affectionate.

Step2

Keeping your cat calm during this time is very important. It will make your life much easier. Spend extra time with her. Pet her and stroke her gently until she has had enough. The need for external stimulation is very high for a cat in heat and this will help her feel satisfied.

Step3

Keep her mind occupied. A cat in heat has a very strong desire to mate. During her estrus cycle she will think of nothing else other than finding a male cat (tom). This can be assuaged by providing her with exciting and new toys to play with. It may also be helpful if you can join in the fun with her. Another purpose served by this play is that it will provide an outlet for the extra energy that comes with estrus.

Step4

If you want to breed your cat in the future, but keep her from going into heat until then, consult your veterinarian. Your vet can inject your cat with hormones that will prevent her from starting her cycle.

Step5

If you have no plans to breed your cat, it may be advisable to have her spayed. This will permanently bring an end to her estrus cycles and also protect her from certain cancers and infections.