What To Do When Your Cat Is In Heat
If your cat is in heat, you may be wondering what to do. Cats are very different from dogs when it comes to reproduction. While dogs experience estrus (the period of time when they’re fertile), cats go into heat, or estrous. During this time, female cats will exhibit specific behaviors and signs that indicate that they’re ready to mate. They might become more affectionate with their owners and other pets in the home as well as strangers outside their house if they’re allowed outdoors.
Calm your cat
Once you have your cat calm, it’s time to make sure she is comfortable. Cats will be more stressed when they’re not in a familiar environment and don’t feel safe. First, make sure your cat has a place to hide if she wants it—this can be as simple as moving the litter box or putting her food up on top of cabinets. She should also have plenty of food and water available at all times so that she doesn’t get hungry or thirsty while she’s waiting for the heat cycle to end (which can take up to five days).
If your cat isn’t eating during her heat cycle, this may indicate that there is something wrong with her health or mood—if your vet diagnoses any medical issues with your cat during this time, they’ll help you find appropriate treatment options so that both of you can stay healthy!
Do not give her pain medication
Avoid giving her any pain medication, as it can make cats more aggressive, interfere with the natural cycle of her heat cycle, and make her lethargic. However, if you do feel your cat is in too much distress you can give her an over-the-counter medication such as ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol).
Make sure she’s contained and away from other cats.
If your cat is in heat, it’s important to make sure she is contained and away from other cats. This includes your own pets, as well as any strays that may be roaming around the neighborhood. The last thing you want to do is let her roam freely around your house or yard without supervision—if she finds herself in heat next to another male cat and they mate, there’s a good chance he will attack her afterward because of territorial instincts.
To keep your female cat safe, consider buying her:
- A room with a door that can be closed or locked (and preferably where other cats won’t be able to access).
- An outdoor enclosure made specifically for cats in heat (and preferably where other dogs or other animals won’t be able to access).
Play with her as much as possible
Playing with your cat is a great way to help her feel better, both physically and mentally. Cats like to play, especially when they are in heat. Playtime will help her relax, burn off some energy and bond with you. It is also a great way to tire out your cat before bedtime because cats should not be allowed outside unattended when they’re in heat due to the risk of unwanted pregnancy or sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
If you do this, things will most likely go well!
Cats in heat are very uncomfortable.
They are at risk of getting infections and even dying from infections.
They are at risk of getting pregnant and having kittens if people do not take steps to prevent it.
They may fight with other cats (or dogs) because they are so upset by their state and want some kind of relief.
If you have more than one cat, they may hurt each other during fights over territory or access to food or shelter.
If you have a female cat in heat, make sure she has enough food and water, that she’s contained away from other cats, and that she gets plenty of playtime. If you do this, things will most likely go well!
