If your cat is unneutered and due their first period, you probably have a lot of questions. Cats present quite differently from other animals in season, so it’s a good idea to know what to expect, especially if you’ve never owned a female cat before!

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Do cats have periods and when?

A cat’s period, also known as being ‘in season’ or ‘heat’, is medically termed ‘oestrus’. A female cat will have their first heat when they hit puberty, at around 4-12 months of age. It usually happens the first spring after they are born. This means they can get pregnant from only 4 months old! 

They will then come into heat every year from around February to October time. During this time, they have several cycles, around every 2-3 weeks. Each ‘heat’ will last around a week (3-10 days), during which time they are fertile.

Do cats in heat bleed?

No. Unlike dogs, it is very rare for a cat to bleed when in heat. This is because they re-absorb the blood leakage (that happens in dogs) and the uterus lining, rather than passing it out of the body. If you notice blood around your cat’s vulva, you should book an appointment with your vet. This may indicate a medical issue, such as inflammation within the urinary tract or an infection. 

Cat period symptoms

When a cat is in season, they usually become very affectionate, or ‘flirty’. Signs you may notice include:

  • ‘Calling’ (a distinctive loud meow): cat owners often mistake this for pain, as it can sound quite distressing!
  • Rolling 
  • Repeatedly rubbing up against their owner or the furniture
  • Trying to get outside (to find a mate)
  • Raising their bottom in the air, treading with their back legs and moving the tail to one side (you may notice your cat doing this when you stroke their back)
  • Urine marking or spraying
  • Occasionally aggressive behaviours. 

As you can see, most of the signs are behavioural. Your cat may also eat slightly less (or more!), and seem a little under the weather. Some of these signs can also be caused by medical issues, so if you aren’t sure what’s going on with your kitty, it’s safest to seek advice from your vet. 

When can a cat get pregnant?

A cat can get pregnant at any time when in heat. Cats are ‘induced ovulators’, meaning the act of mating causes an egg to be released from the ovaries. If the cat doesn’t mate, an egg won’t be released. It’s important to note that cats can become pregnant from as young as 4 months old. If your cat goes outside when in heat, or has contact with an unneutered male within your home, it is incredibly likely that she will get pregnant.

How to care for a cat in heat

If you haven’t experienced a cat in season before, it can be quite distressing! The loud calling noise can make it seem like your cat is in pain. Rest assured that being in heat is not painful. Having said that, it can make your cat feel unsettled and confused, especially if it’s their first season. Offer your cat some extra TLC and, if they feel like it, try to distract them with some new games or toys.

To prevent unwanted pregnancy, you will need to keep your cat inside for the whole time that she is in season. She will often be desperate to get outside, so this can prove tricky! You may also find that she attracts unwanted tomcat visitors, who will try to get inside your house. So, you will need to be on high alert! You will also need to keep her away from any unneutered males within your home, including any relatives. For example, brother and sister cats can (and will) mate from around 4 months old.

If you aren’t planning to breed your cat, then your vet will advise neutering (having her spayed). This is the best way to avoid unwanted pregnancies, reduce roaming, and reduce the risk of some diseases (such as FIV and feline leukaemia virus). It’s important to note that, despite common myth, you do not need to let your cat have a litter or a heat cycle before spaying her. 

Take home message?

In short, yes, cats do get “periods” – just not like we do! Cats in season can be very vocal and affectionate. They will need some extra TLC, and to be kept away from any unneutered males or they will get pregnant. It’s best to spay your cat if you aren’t planning to breed from them.

If you aren’t sure why your cat is vocalising, or you aren’t sure they are in season, seek veterinary advice. It’s always best to err on the side of caution, even if it’s just for peace of mind. 
If you need any advice on neutering, please speak with your veterinary team.

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