Cat in heat: signs, duration and useful tips

There comes a moment in your relationship with a cat when something suddenly changes: persistent meowing, unusual behaviors, and affectionate gestures followed by restlessness can shift the atmosphere at home.
All these signs indicate that your cat is in heat—meaning she is entering her reproductive cycle. It’s a completely natural process, but one that can surprise (or sometimes alarm) anyone experiencing it for the first time.

In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know: when a cat goes into heat, how long this phase lasts, what behaviors to expect, and most importantly, how to help her go through it as calmly as possible. If you’re considering spaying, you’ll also find useful information to make an informed decision.

When Do Cats Go into Heat?

A cat in heat is in the fertile phase of her reproductive cycle and is ready to mate. This phase is called “estrus” and only occurs in unspayed females.
During this time, both her body and behavior change: she may become more affectionate or agitated and vocalize more to send signals to nearby male cats. It’s a completely natural event, but it can make cohabitation a bit more challenging than usual.

So, when does a cat go into heat? It depends on various factors, including breed, environment, climate conditions, and her individual traits. On average, female cats go into their first heat between 5 and 9 months of age. Short-haired cats tend to reach this stage earlier, while long-haired cats may take a few extra months.
Heat occurs primarily during the breeding season, which runs from early spring through autumn. Between October and December, most cats experience a reproductive rest phase known as “anestrus,” during which no heat cycles occur.
Male cats, on the other hand, do not have cyclic heat periods like females; they are fertile year-round after reaching sexual maturity (usually around 6–8 months). Their behavior also changes — they may become more restless and start marking territory with urine — but their response is triggered by female pheromones.

How to Recognize a Cat in Heat

The signs of a cat in heat are often very noticeable, even for those new to cat companionship. It’s hard to miss them, as the cat starts showing unusual behaviors related to hormonal changes and her natural instinct to mate. Here’s what you might observe during this phase:

 
• Persistent, loud meowing, often at night, to attract male cats, even from a distance.
 
• Rolling on the floor, rubbing against furniture, people, or surfaces, and excessive grooming of the genital area to relieve discomfort or tension.
 
• Increased purring and affectionate behavior, often alternating with restlessness.
 
• Typical mating posture: when touched on the back, the cat raises her hindquarters and moves her tail to the side—an instinctive response signaling readiness to mate.
 
• Desire to go outdoors, even in typically indoor cats.
 
• Marking with urine, although this is less common in females than in males.

How Long Does a Cat Stay in Heat?

The duration of heat varies from cat to cat, but on average, estrus lasts between 5 and 10 days.
It may be shorter or longer depending on the cat’s age, hormonal balance, and whether male cats are nearby.
During the breeding season, if the cat does not mate, she may return to heat just a few days later, resulting in a continuous cycle that can last for weeks. This is why it’s important to know how to manage a cat in heat—not just for her wellbeing but also for a calmer household.

How to Calm a Cat in Heat

A cat’s heat cycle is a completely natural phase, and as such, it cannot be “stopped”. Spaying (which we’ll discuss later) is currently the only way to prevent heat cycles, reduce the risk of unwanted litters, and avoid certain health issues.
However, there are some strategies to make this period more manageable. When a cat is more agitated and in need of attention, creating a calm environment and being present can make a real difference. Here are some helpful tips:

 
• Create a calm environment: a cat in heat needs peace and reassurance. Reduce external stimuli by keeping windows closed or covered to limit contact with other cats and minimize stress. Likewise, try to keep her indoors to avoid escape attempts or unwanted mating.
 
• Give her extra attention: affection and interaction may help calm her nerves. But only if she wants it! Some cats enjoy cuddles, while others prefer solitude. Observe her behavior and respond to her needs accordingly.
 
• Play with her: daily play sessions and increased physical activity can help her release excess energy and stay distracted.
 
• Maintain a balanced diet alongside a stable routine—regular times for meals, play, and rest can help keep her grounded. Avoid sudden changes to maintain her emotional balance during this turbulent phase.

In general, remember that this is not an easy time for your cat either. When a cat is in heat, she experiences heightened tension and need, which can cause discomfort. Don’t scold her or keep your distance—support her with patience, respect her rhythms, and let her feel your presence. This, too, is a way to strengthen your bond.

Can You Spay a Cat in Heat?

As mentioned, a cat’s heat cycle is a natural and recurring phase that can only be interrupted through spaying. This often raises a common question: can you spay a cat while she’s in heat? The answer is yes, but only in specific cases. In general, veterinarians recommend waiting until the heat cycle ends, since during this phase the blood vessels in the uterus are more dilated, increasing the risk of surgical complications.

Spaying, however, is an important decision—not just to avoid an unwanted pregnancy, but also to ensure your cat’s long-term wellbeing.
Spaying reduces the stress of frequent heat cycles and can help prevent several health issues (such as uterine infections or mammary tumors), contributing to a calmer, healthier life.
Of course, it's essential to continue caring for her properly. After spaying, a cat’s nutritional needs change: her metabolism may slow down, her physical activity may decrease, and her energy requirements are reduced. A spayed cat tends to be less active and, if not fed a balanced diet, may gain weight.
The good news? Managing this new stage is simple—especially when you choose specially formulated products. The Oasy range for sterilized cats is designed to meet these needs, helping your cat maintain a healthy weight without sacrificing taste or quality.
If you’d like to learn more, check out our articles: “Cat sterilization: why it is necessary” and “Three Tips to Take care of a sterilized Cat”.