Cats in heat
Cats in heat need special care and attention. If your cat
has already been through a heat you won't forget her howling
and the constant demands for attention.
If she isn't able to mate then it can be a frustrating and
uncomfortable time for you both. If, on the other hand, she is
able to mate, you need to be prepared for potentially two
litters of kittens a year! Unless you're planning on breeding
from your cat it is therefore best to have her spayed. It will
be easier on her, and on you.
Fertile
When your cat is 'in heat' she is in the fertile period of
her reproductive cycle and is looking to mate. She will usually
go into heat in the spring and Autumn and a heat can last from
a few days all the way up to a few weeks. A cat normally has
her first heat at around six months of age, but some can have
it as early as four months old.
What to look out for
During a heat your cat may be more affectionate, rubbing up
against furniture, walls and her favourite people. She'll
probably rub with her hindquarters in particular and may
frequently display the mating position with her hindquarters
and tail raised.
The most problematic characteristics of a heat for an owner
are the vocalisation and spraying. Cats in heat will howl
loudly and constantly as they try to attract a
male to mate. They may also spray walls or furniture with
strong smelling urine in an attempt to indicate their
availability to a male.
If you have an indoor cat they may try desperately to get
outside, even going as far as attacking windows or doors.
Spaying
Though your veterinarian may be able to prescribe medication
to reduce the signs, the best way to prevent a cat being in
heat is to have her spayed. After she's been spayed she will
stop going into heat and become much less territorial and less
likely to spray or scratch.
Most veterinarians prefer to wait until her cycle is
finished before spaying. There are arguments for and against
spaying a kitten of an early age or waiting until after her
first heat. Your veterinarian will be able to tell you what
his/her opinion is.