A cat comes in heat when she sexually matures which can be any time between 7 to 12 months, and in some cases as early as 4 months and as late as 18 months. The female (called a queen) can be in heat, or estrus, up to five times a year and in the spring and summer the animal will be in a constant state of reproductive readiness.

There are many signs that your cat is in heat and can include:

1 Your cat is more loving than usual.
2 Rolls around the floor.
3 Carries her tail to one side
4 She makes a lot of noise (Calling)
5 Your cat assumes a position with her front quarters on the ground and her bottom pointing in the air.
6 Your cat's hind legs may 'tread'
7 Your cat licks her vulva area frequently
8 f you pat your cat on her back near her tail your cat will raise her bottom in the air.
9 Always seems desperate to get outside.

It may be worth noting that these types of behavior do not wholly relate to your cat being in heat and that cats can behave like this anyway - even if it is a male. The list serves as a pointer to highlight certain types of cat behavior, which as a caring owner, you can pick up on if it becomes exaggerated or unduly displayed.

Many well meaning owners can be under the impression that it is a good idea to allow their cat to have at least one litter before she is sterilised. This is a complete myth and has helped to generate a whole succession of unwanted felines initially perpetuated by misplaced sentimentality.

In some cases, heat cycles can be discomforting and painful to the queen, and as a caring owner the only real option to help your cat when she is in heat, is to have her spayed.

Spaying will also have the added benefit of cutting down the risk of certain medical problems such as: Mammary cancer, Reproductive tract tumors, pyrometra, and genetic diseases. She will never have to put up with birthing problems, contract diseases spread by bites and reproductive activity, and you will also save a few dollars on expensive vet bills.

If you are on a low income and need a little help with getting your cat neutered, then why not give your local vet a ring? He will be able to offer you useful and practical advice and give you the names and addresses of local cat protection organisations that may be willing to provide financial help towards the operation.

Sources:

cat, domestic. (2008). Encyclopdia Britannica. Standard Edition. Chicago: Encyclopdia Britannica.

http://www.cats.org.uk

Learn more about this author, Jane Allyson.
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