The cat asks for a cat. Features of sexual heat in cats and ways to solve the problem. What should an owner do when a cat wants a cat? Estrus in a cat: a natural process that requires special attention How often do cats have a rut?

Before bringing a cat into the house, potential owners should think about the period of her puberty - about estrus. This is a natural process characteristic of healthy cats. Instincts take over, and the pet’s behavior changes, which causes discomfort for both the animal and the owner. Therefore, it is important to know in advance how long estrus lasts in cats and how to ease this period.

Estrus is an individual hormonal process that differs for each animal. Often the behavior, duration, tendency to false pregnancy or aggression depend on the breed and temperament of the cat. However, there are general “rules” for pets in heat. Any deviation from the norm is a reason to go to the clinic.

How long does a cat's heat last?

A cat's first heat occurs around six months after birth. Sometimes maturation is delayed up to eight to ten months. The onset of late estrus at one to one and a half months, as well as early estrus up to six months, indicates a hormonal disorder and is a deviation from the norm.

Some kittens can be in heat as early as four months and even become pregnant. In this case, the cats are culled and sterilized - this feature of the body can be inherited. A long delay is a reason to consult a doctor. Perhaps the cat is developing incorrectly and has significant deviations in physiology.

The average duration of estrus is a week and depends on the age of the cat. The older the cat gets, the longer the “spring”. With old age, the duration and frequency are significantly reduced, and estrus passes without ovulation.

Untied cats shed on average once every three months, chaste pets ask for a cat more often, about once a month. If a cat mates constantly, she will come into heat every six months. There are cases when a new mother begins to leak within a month and a half after lambing. In some breeds, for example, Scottish Straight, Scottish Fold, British Shorthair, the period between estrus stretches for six to eight months, and the “female” cycle can be five days.

The first heat, duration, and frequency depend on the cat’s temperament, diet, daily routine, and the presence of cats in the neighborhood. As a rule, active pets begin to leak before their phlegmatic “sisters”. Being near a cat can spontaneously trigger the onset of the cycle.

Stages

Estrus is a complex physiological process consisting of four stages.

1. Proestrus. Preparatory stage, lasting up to four days. A cat may show excessive tenderness towards its owner, but maintain its usual lifestyle. The vulva - the external genital organ - swells. Discharge begins, but the pet is not yet ready to accept a cat.
2. Estrus. Actually, in heat. Lasts seven to ten days. At this stage, even an inexperienced owner notices how his beloved cat is in heat. The pet begins to meow protractedly, crawl on the floor, and caress towards people and objects. Ovulation occurs around the third to fifth day of estrus. These days the cat can be mated.
3. Metestrus. Over the next three to ten days, the cat's libido decreases, and the pet calms down. After mating, at this stage the cat shows aggression towards cats, this is a sure sign of pregnancy. If fertilization does not occur, the cat may develop a false pregnancy during the third stage of estrus. This condition is dangerous for the physical and mental health of the pet and is associated with hormonal imbalance and genetic predisposition. The cat should be monitored. If she starts carrying things (socks, mittens), making a “nest,” or “feeding” soft toys, then it is better to immediately contact a veterinarian.
4. Anestrus. The final stage of the cycle. The pet completely calms down and returns to its normal lifestyle.

The time of year does not affect the onset of estrus. If your pet was born in June, puberty should be expected in December. However, in winter there is a “lull”; the cycle passes relatively unnoticed and calmly. The hormonal surge begins in February-March and can last until the onset of cold weather, depending on the length of daylight hours.

Signs

There are physiological and behavioral signs of estrus in cats. The pet does not always loudly communicate its condition. Therefore, while waiting for the onset of the cycle, pay attention to physiological changes in the cat’s body.

Physiology

Symptoms of estrus in a cat can be seen already on the first or second day.

• Discharge. The pet often licks itself, sometimes leaving wet marks. Discharge from the vulva during a cat's heat is clear and light. Some owners recommend wearing special underpants for their pet. However, a cat is a clean animal that takes care of hygiene on its own.
• Frequent urination. The cat goes to the toilet more often with its usual diet. Some begin to mark their territory and shit in inappropriate places - on shoes, beds, walls. Most often this happens due to hormonal surges or the presence of a cat nearby.
• Lack of appetite. The cat is not eating well and refuses its usual food.

These symptoms do not always signal the onset of estrus. Perhaps they are associated with disruption of internal organs. If, according to all calculations, the cat should not leak, but often goes to the toilet, refuses food and “watches”, this is a reason to take the pet to the veterinarian.

"Concerts"

A cat behaves during estrus in accordance with its temperament. Behavior may vary from cycle to cycle. If the first heat was quite calm, then in the second the cat can give a concert not only to the owners, but also to the neighbors. There are generally four behavioral habits of a cat in estrus.

1. Meowing. The pet makes the most incredible sounds so that the cat can hear her. During heat, a cat screams protractedly, pitifully, loudly. Some cats purr or croak. The "concert" can last all night.
2. Affectionateness. Even the most unsociable pets during this period become gentle, affectionate and sociable. They rub against the owner's legs, furniture, walls, and playfully roll around on the floor. Some individuals show aggression.
3. Tail abduction. During estrus, the cat crawls on its belly, raising its hindquarters and retracting its tail. Willingly bends when stroking the back and sacrum. When walking, the tail is held at a bend.
4. Finding a way out. The pet tries to run away at any opportunity to look for the cat. During this period, it is necessary to especially carefully monitor closed doors and windows. If the cat runs away, offspring can be expected in two months.

Scolding, let alone beating, a cat for showing its nature is stupid and irrational. The cat itself is not happy with its behavior, but cannot cope with its instincts on its own. You should be sensitive to the physiological characteristics of the animal.

How to help

Instinct causes inconvenience not only to the owner, but also to the pet itself. Therefore, a loving owner first of all thinks about how to ease the cat’s estrus. There are several methods - from short-term sedation to sterilization.

Drugs

Pregnancy of a kitten is highly undesirable. The body is not yet fully formed, it requires a lot of resources for its own construction, so the cat may die while bearing offspring. At the same time, constant empty estrus until adulthood (the ability to become pregnant) leads to serious diseases of the uterus and ovaries, even death.

If the cat is a breeding cat, healthy and in the future preparing to become a mother, then the first heats before the age of one should be endured, easing the cat’s condition. The table shows safe sedatives.

Table - What can be given during estrus

Give liquid products, especially pleasant to the cat, on the tip of your finger or add to food. It is recommended to drop it with a pipette into your mouth. Dilute solid preparations in water or place on the root of the tongue. Give it with water or milk from a syringe.

Many experienced owners are categorically against the use of hormonal drugs to interrupt and delay estrus. With frequent use of drugs in a cat, the risk of cancer and early death increases due to hormonal imbalance. In addition, the drugs have a short-term effect and may not work during a subsequent estrus.

An experienced veterinarian will help administer a course of hormonal injections to the withers. However, it is not recommended to get carried away with injections, much less carry them out without consulting a doctor. It is important to remember that the course should begin before the onset of estrus. At the height of the cycle, you should not inject your cat.

Suppressing instincts by influencing hormones will adversely affect the health of your pet. Therefore, with the help of drugs, a loving owner can only calm an excited animal.

5 more ways to calm your animal

You can calm a cat during heat not only with herbs and infusions. The cat wants to communicate, be the center of attention and throw out pent-up energy. Therefore, it is recommended to distract and tire the animal in five ways.

1. Games Active play will distract the animal from the idea of ​​mating and help get rid of excess energy. Make your cat run and jump so that she gets tired faster.
2. Massage . Cat massage is most effective. Place the pet on the floor, pressing it with your palm in the area of ​​the shoulder blades. With your other hand, pinch the base of the tail with your thumb and index finger. Squeeze fairly hard. If the cat meows and growls, then everything is being done correctly. Continue until the animal begins to struggle. After the massage, the cat squirms on its back. After some time, she can approach the owner on her own to repeat the procedure.
3. Weasel. Stroke it, talk to your pet in a calm voice, pick it up.
4. Bathing. Give your cat a bath or wet its tail. The animal will begin to lick itself, become distracted and quickly get tired.
5. Night sleep. Don't let your cat sleep during the day. A tired pet will sleep at night and forget about the “concerts”.

Physical pressure on a cat does not always work. Therefore, you can combine, for example, taking “Stop Stress” with a massage. The main thing is not to punish or ignore the cat during a difficult period.

Sterilization or castration

In order not to wait with horror for the next heat, which can occur every month, it is recommended to neuter your furry pet. It is to castrate, not to sterilize.

Sterilization involves tubal ligation, and castration involves removing the ovaries. Do spayed cats go into heat? Yes, since the organs are preserved, but the reproductive function is lost. The cat will ask for a cat, but will not be able to get pregnant. This option is preferable for owners of a “yard” cat.

If your pet lives at home all the time, then for general peace of mind it is better to neuter her. The operation is performed at the age of six to seven months, most often before or after the first heat. It is not advisable to operate during the cycle.

Castration helps to get rid not only of regular “chants”, but also of possible diseases and pathologies. The character, activity and good manners of the cat are preserved after surgery.

Possible problems

Unlike women, a cat does not feel pain in the uterine area during menstruation. However, you should be attentive to the health of your pet and, in case of any deviations from the norm, show the animal to a specialist. In what cases should you contact a veterinary clinic:

• uncharacteristic discharge- contain blood or pus;
• frequent vomiting - can occur from an overdose of the drug;
• prolonged estrus - more than 15 days.

Any vaccinations are given after the cycle is completed. You cannot vaccinate a leaking cat.

Knowing how often cats come into heat, you can prepare your pet for a planned pregnancy. Start looking for a suitable candidate well in advance of the cycle. Only pedigree cats are bred. During an empty heat, give only sedatives, play with the animal, and give a massage. If the pet has no breeding value, then it is better to castrate the animal. This will save both the owner and the cat from unnecessary hassle.

Puberty occurs in the life of any cat. When it makes itself felt, not only the cat begins to suffer, but also its owners. All games and tenderness fade into the background, and the pet actively begins to look for a partner for mating.

How to calm a cat during heat at home (tips)

There are several ways that can help make life easier for your pet during heat:

1. If you are ready for the future offspring of your cat, then you can invite a cat to visit. Mating a cat no more than once a year. The rest of the time, . It is worth remembering that frequent pregnancies and childbirths are harmful to a cat’s health.

   Cat and her kittens

2. Spend more time with your pet . Play together often and don't ignore if your cat needs attention. You can pet the animal, but not in the area of ​​the sacrum. If the cat refuses to eat, you can feed it in parts and small portions. This will be a kind of diet during estrus.
   
3. Insulation. You can lock the cat alone in a room, leaving there a bowl of food and drink. If there is a cat in the house, completely limit them from each other, otherwise this will only increase the excitement. Pets walking outside should be limited in their walks to avoid encounters with the opposite sex.

   Isolation will calm the cat a little, but it’s unlikely that your neighbors will like his long, heart-rending screams

4. It is believed that a warm towel or heating pad will help relieve symptoms. The warmth will allow the cat to relax and calm down a little. Place a heating pad under the animal's bed. And on top of the pet you can cover it with a soft blanket.
5. You can try Feliway. "Feliway" is a synthetic pheromone that helps calm the animal. It is released in the form of a diffuser which is connected to the network. One package of the drug lasts for 4 weeks, and it acts in the entire apartment area.

   Synthetic pheromone Feliway

6. If your pet is not purebred and you do not need offspring from it, then the best option would be to sterilize the animal. Removing the ovaries completely eliminates all symptoms of estrus. After this, the cat will never be able to become pregnant again.
7. Wet the cat . She should calm down for a while. The cat will begin to lick itself. If this did not happen, then the instinct to procreate was stronger.

   There's no time for a cat when I'm so wet and funny. And the cat won’t understand!

Chamomile decoction is perfect, but the effect will be short-lived. The difficulty will be how to give this to the cat.

Try herbal infusions (folk remedies) . You can brew lemon balm, cumin and chamomile and give your cat a drink. This drink will help relieve anxiety and calm down. You can use catnip or bromine. But the effect of these drugs will last 2-3 hours, and then everything will resume.

Sedatives

Many owners resort to hormonal medications during estrus. They can be easily purchased at veterinary hospitals and pet stores. Such medications help the cat overcome the desire for the cat. It is important to know that such drugs are very harmful to your cat.

Treatment with hormones can lead to vomiting and even the formation of tumors in the pet’s body. Doctors recommend using them no more than 2 times a year.

Classic way - calming tablets based on hormones or homeopathy. They resort to it when the cat is in heat. If the “suitor” has not yet been selected or is not ready. Your veterinary clinic will be able to tell you the names. Depends on the pet, its weight and age.

If you do not plan to use the cat for breeding, then it is better to sterilize it!

How often does heat occur?

A cat reaches sexual maturity between the ages of 8 and 12 months.

This process is individual for each animal. Some cats start asking for a cat earlier, others later. As soon as she goes into heat, the moment has come.

Heat may continue 1-3 weeks, about once every 1-2 months. The duration of this process largely depends on the characteristics of the cat and its lifestyle. If the pet does not get the opportunity to mate with a partner, the process may be delayed.

How to determine the onset of heat in a cat?

A cat is not a dog and does not exhibit obvious physiological changes. But there are still several signs that can help you determine when a cat is in heat:

But this happens differently for all pets. Therefore, if the cat was already loud-mouthed, the owner will not pay much attention to the fact that she began to meow more often. If this happens to your animal for the first time, current advice on this topic will help you.

Conclusion

Which method to choose is up to you to decide. But if none of the options suits you, all you have to do is be patient and wait. When the estrus period passes, your animal will return to its previous state and continue to delight you with its presence.

A sexually mature cat, ready to mate and bear offspring, begins to heat. Cats mate during the period when the female is in heat. In healthy cats with a low level of temperament, the first heat occurs no earlier than 11–13 months. In cats with increased activity and hormonal imbalances, estrus may begin earlier. There are known cases of estrus in 4-month-old kittens. Moreover, if a cat mates a kitten during such a heat, the kitten will become pregnant.

It happens that cats do not estrus for a long time and even cats at the age of 1.5 - 2 years have not had a single estrus. Estrus in a 4-month-old kitten, as well as the absence of estrus in a cat that is more than 1 - 1.5 years old, are considered a deviation from the norm. Early breeding cats and cats that are constantly breeding before the age of 10 – 12 months should be removed from breeding. It is believed that the estrus system in cats can be inherited. Cats maturing at the age of 4 – 8 months are a significant deviation from the norm. You should not torment such a cat with empty heats.

Empty estrus in cats leads to purulent disease of the uterus, which without surgical intervention ends in death within a few days. Kittens can be sterilized early, sterilized through a side incision; this will protect a kitten with hormonal imbalances from pyometra and preserve the nervous system of the owners. The fact is that not every, even a very loving owner, is able to calmly tolerate a cat’s constant heat. During this period, she screams, calls the cat invitingly, and makes frightening low trumpet sounds that disturb not only you, but also your neighbors’ sleep. And this goes on for several days.

How long does a cat's heat last?

The duration of estrus in cats is about a week. It is not necessary that she will loudly trumpet this all these 6-8 days. Most likely, for the first 1-2 days she will cuddle and purr, but usually the cat still screams loudly at night for about 5 days, so empty heats are very difficult for both the cat and her environment. To do this, it is recommended to sterilize cats that are not intended for breeding before their first heat. For cats with good hormonal levels, this is a period of 6 to 10 months.

If the cat is valuable, breeding, and participates in exhibitions and breeding, then estrus is the norm for her. But you must foresee in advance who to breed your cat with during her heat. Selecting a breeding pair is a long process, so if you have bought a breeding cat whose value has been confirmed at an exhibition, start looking for a groom for her six months before the expected estrus.

When does a cat go into heat for the first time?

According to the breeding status of most felinological systems, the first birth of a cat is allowed at the age of 1 year, when the body is already fully formed and prepared for bearing kittens, giving birth and feeding a litter. This means that a cat’s first mating should take place at the age of 10 months. This is the best option, but in real life, it all depends on the individual characteristics and temperament of each cat. Estrus can begin at 6-7 months, when the cat is not yet ready for motherhood.

If your cat is a breeding cat, and she shed blood before the time allowed for breeding, then you need to alleviate her condition. It is clear that dragging a cat that has estrused at 4-6 months until 12-14 months is very dangerous, so if you have such a cat, think about whether she is really such a valuable specimen, taking into account her predisposition to early estrus. If you are a breeder and are sure that you need this particular cat in the program, then you should resort to mild means that are designed to normalize the animal’s hormonal levels.

A good drug of choice is Ovariovit. This is a modern, safe homeopathic remedy for veterinary use. Its purpose: treatment of hormonal disorders in females. Ovariovit can be used in several cases: with early estrus in a cat, with frequent estrus in a mature cat, in the absence of estrus in a mature cat. Indeed, Ovariovit works with good efficiency both in case of unwanted frequent estrus and in its absence. This is explained by the fact that both conditions in cats are caused by hormonal imbalances.

With a normal hormonal background, the cat does not estrus early, does not estrus often, and does not need to be induced into estrus. Normalization of hormonal levels is precisely intended to equalize both hormonal levels and the frequency and duration of estrus.

Frequent estrus in a cat

The normal duration of estrus in a cat is 5 – 7 days. If your cat is in heat longer, the heat continues without stopping for more than 10 - 14 days, then your cat has entered heat and is not coming out of it. Either mating or castration can help here. Ovariovitis is already powerless in such difficult cases.

If the cat doesn't leak

While some owners need to decide what to do about frequent estrus, others are faced with the question: How to induce estrus in a breeding cat? Indeed, there are also cases when the cat does not leak at all. Or, for example, she may have one heat at the age of 8 months, when it is too early to breed, and there will be no more heats; they want the cat to be already 2 years old. Of course, if a cat is purebred, pedigree, purchased for breeding and its value is confirmed by experts at international cat shows, then the question arises of how to induce heat in a cat. There are different methods that can sometimes help bring a cat into heat.

• If you have another cat and she is in heat, keep the two cats together, cats often heat at the same time, and the other cat may also come into heat.
• If you have a cat, place a mature, non-neutered cat and a female cat together; the cat may bleed from the smell of the cat.
• Estrus can be induced by using homeopathic medicines and vitamins. But you should only do this if you are sure that your cat is healthy. In this case, the options are: catozal, ovariovit, vitamin E, ortilin, gamavit, ovarium compositum.

Signs of heat in a cat

Owners whose cat has never been in heat should know the main signs that the cat is preparing for heat: a cat during heat begins to caress a lot, becomes capricious, walks around the apartment and meows as if it is looking for someone, spends more time with its beloved owner, requires attention, affection, stroking. Moreover, this condition can begin several weeks before a full-fledged estrus. The heat itself usually proceeds brightly, the cat lies down along the floor, sticks out its butt, rubs its head on the floor, closes its eyes, and purrs invitingly. If there is no cat nearby, then on the 2-3rd day the cat begins to howl and make terrible uterine sounds. Neighborhood cats and animals from the street may come to her call. Protect your cat from unwanted mating during her heat period. Do not let her go outside, on the landing or on an unglazed balcony. Remember, a cat in heat can be very adventurous; she can slip out of an open door or make her way to the cat if he is in the next room. Don't let your guard down. You are responsible for your cat's actions!

Estrus, estrus, heat are the names of the state when the female’s body is ready for mating, bearing, and giving birth to offspring. The body undergoes natural endocrine changes caused by the maturation of follicles in the ovaries. The external manifestations, duration, and frequency of this condition are difficult to predict; they depend on various factors. But understanding your pet’s condition will bring undoubted benefits.

Signs and symptoms

Although the symptoms of this process manifest themselves differently in each Murka, you must learn to identify them. The onset is determined by the following characteristic features:

• enlargement of the genitals;
• the appearance of special bloodless discharge;
• increased frequency of urination;
• an increase in the number of licks;
• decreased appetite;
• more affectionate or aggressive behavior;
• frequent attempts to go for a walk;
• characteristic unpleasant sounds.

Whether all symptoms appear simultaneously or only some depends on the individual characteristics of the animal. The pet can roll on the floor, wriggle, throw its tail to the side, howl deep in its throat, make screams, i.e. do everything possible to attract a male and begin reproducing offspring.

For her, this is completely natural behavior, which seems strange and illogical to the owner. There are other manifestations: screaming, constantly meowing, marking territory, walking past the toilet, ignoring the litter tray, eating poorly, not eating anything, sleeping a lot, losing weight, peeing on the bed.

How does the furry beauty feel?

Changes in the endocrine background cause changes in emotions. The condition of the reproductive organs changes. The brain receives signals that significantly change the pet’s behavior. The situation becomes unusual and stressful. The cat begins to worry and feels the need for affection. An increase in stress levels provokes instinctively aggressive behavior, furious meowing. When Murka's puberty proceeds normally, the baby is not in pain, but her anxiety increases noticeably, and she may lose weight due to nervousness.

How often does estrus occur?

Breeders note that the frequency of cycles depends on the breed, more often in temperamental ones, less often in calm ones. The first include the Siamese and Persians, the second - the British and Scots. There are other factors: time of year, childbirth, age, hormonal changes, health status. It is necessary to take into account the individual characteristics of each individual. In cats of the same breed and age, periods of arousal differ markedly.

How long does it last

The duration of estrus is individual for each individual. Usually it lasts only a few days, sometimes it lasts two weeks, twenty days. Felinologists recommend carefully monitoring the process, recording the duration of each rut, and marking the dates on the calendar. Sudden changes in timing indicate trouble. Prolonged sexual activity is a characteristic symptom of problems with the ovaries: cysts, tumors, inflammation. A reduction in the timing of the rut occurs with hormonal problems, expressed in thyroid pathologies, abnormal development of the ovaries.

Seasonality of the reproductive cycle

The time of year affects the frequency of heat in cats. In spring, summer, and autumn, the desire to mate increases, in winter it decreases. It is necessary to take into account the conditions of detention; permanent residence in a warm house blurs the lines between seasons; the female is ready to mate regardless of the season. This is an individual moment. One Murka expresses a desire to mate at the very beginning of spring, the other - closer to the beginning of summer. With age, the seasonality of the reproductive cycle changes. If Murka is healthy, there is no need to worry.

Frequency of estrus

How many times and exactly when the process starts depends on:

• childbirth and feeding, after which half a year or less may pass until the next active phase;
• death of kittens or early weaning after birth, which reduces the break until the next active phase;
• age, the desire to mate becomes less as the female ages.

One heat cycle every three months, i.e. four per year is considered the average norm. There are cats that are ready to mate every month or more often; for some, one date with a male every six months is enough.

If there has been mating, the desired pregnancy has occurred, estrus will stop for the duration of gestation, i.e. for two months or a little more. The next active phase occurs 3-5 months after birth or earlier if the offspring was stillborn.

Cat's first heat

This is a special time. The pet's body changes, sensations appear that she has not experienced before, Murka needs care and attention. It is difficult to accurately calculate the beginning of a special time. When your pet turns six months old, it is necessary to carefully “try on” changes in behavior for signs of maturation in order to identify the onset of natural maturation processes and recognize early symptoms of possible diseases.

When does the first heat start?

The time of onset of the first estrus in a cat varies widely: from six to sixteen months. There are “early” babies who mature by four months, although such early estrus indicates the presence of a developmental pathology, the onset of the disease. If a one-and-a-half-year-old beauty does not experience estrus, a veterinarian’s consultation is necessary. A long process of puberty is a sign of developing problems that cannot be ignored.

Features of the first rut

The optimal age for the first rut is approximately 10 months; mating at this time will allow the mustachioed beauty to have offspring by a year or a little later. The body is already mature enough to withstand the stress associated with childbirth. It is important to have a general idea: when the cat’s first sexual estrus began and how it proceeded. During early rutting, probable pathologies are identified and treatment is begun. The decision to sterilize is also made at this stage.

What is happening to Murka at this time?

Experts divide the rut into four main periods. It is difficult to see clear boundaries between them, but knowing how to understand when your pet is having sexual activity will be useful. The owners will better understand the feelings of the pet and will be able to choose the optimal time for mating. This will increase the cat's chances of starting pregnancy at the right time. The defining moment is the exact determination of the first day of the cycle.

Proestrus

The initial stage lasts from a day to four, often lasting two days. The pet eats less, there is slight discharge and swelling of the genitals. The cat becomes affectionate, reacts aggressively to the cat or remains indifferent. The process has just begun, the pet is not ready for mating. It is worth assessing what color the discharge is during the rut. They should be scanty, transparent, odorless.

Estrus

This is the active phase, suitable for mating, and lasts five to ten days. Now it becomes clear what this process looks like in a cat. Now characterized by increased hormonal levels and heavy discharge. The cat's behavior acquires a pronounced desire to mate. She arches, rolls on the floor, wriggles, throws her tail, and makes unusual body movements. The pet does not purr, but rather screams.

The lack of opportunity to release sexual energy during the mating process can cause mustachioed beauties extremely unpleasant physical sensations, which is why they scream. Any disciplinary measures will increase stress; neither persuasion nor punishment will change the endocrine background of the pet. If estrus is asymptomatic, behavior remains calm, and there is a high probability of problems in the gynecological area.

Interestrus

It is called post-estrus or metestrus. Depending on whether there was mating, here are the options for the development of events:

• fertilization has occurred, pregnancy has occurred, kittens will appear in ten weeks;
• after mating, fertilization did not occur, a false pregnancy occurred, lasting thirty to forty days, then the next rutting period will begin;
• there was no mating, arousal will gradually decrease over a period of two days to two weeks.

In this phase, the manifestation of aggression towards the male is considered natural. New hormonal changes associated with a return to normal or the development of pregnancy again affect the animal's behavior. The pet begins to calm down and does not let the cat near.

Anestrus

The resting phase from metestrus to the next estrus. In cats that are regularly bred after pregnancy or childbirth, this period may be longer than in a pet that has gone through an empty heat. Aneestrus lasts several weeks or months. Felinologists note that numerous rutting periods that do not end with fertilization do not bring benefit to the cat. The likelihood of developing a number of diseases increases. It is necessary to decide now how to stop or interrupt the next hunt.

How to behave as an owner

Mating is a natural step for a current female, but it is not always possible. It's a bad idea to breed a female cat during her first heat. Simple methods and techniques will help ease the baby’s suffering:

• distract with favorite or new toys;
• pick up, stroke, massage, soothe with gentle words;
• feed frequently in smaller portions;
• reduce room lighting;
• use sedatives recommended by your veterinarian;
• invite an active neutered male for mating.

Some owners independently stimulate the cat to help the pet get through a difficult period if the cat does not want the cat or is unavailable. First you need to put a glove on your hand and prepare a clean cotton swab. You need to stroke the cat, which is in a state of rutting, on the back, and gently grab it by the withers.

The vulva is then gently stroked until the vagina begins to pulsate and the tail is pulled to the side. Now you can slowly insert a cotton swab or other suitable object inside. Stimulation is carried out until discharge occurs. The procedure is repeated several times.

If there are cats in the house, and mating is not planned, the current female must be isolated and harmless folk remedies used to calm her down. The bed should be placed next to a radiator or other heat source, and a warm heating pad should be placed. Frequent bathing helps relieve tension. You need to wash your pet carefully. If Murka does not like water, the irritation will not subside, but will intensify. Sometimes catnip or decoctions of soothing herbs: lemon balm, chamomile give results.

There are herbal soothing drops and tablets to stop Murka from screaming:

• Stop Stress;
• Kot-Bayun;
• Anti-stress.

They have a mild effect and do not affect the hormonal state of the animal. There are relatively safe means in the first aid kit to calm Murka down. Suprastin is given at the rate of a quarter of a tablet per five kilograms of weight, once a day towards night, for three days.

Suprastin suppresses the psyche of fluffies; it cannot be considered as a replacement for hormonal therapy or sterilization. The medicine is prescribed as a temporary measure after childbirth to delay the onset of a new pregnancy.

On specialized forums there are reviews, photos, prices for medicines, recommendations on what else can be used for a pet during estrus. If she starts peeing anywhere, marking her territory, she needs to use special underpants.

Deviations from the norm

The owner needs to carefully monitor the seasonality, duration, and nature of estrus in order to record anomalies. A long absence of the active phase, its frequent occurrence, pain, sluggish response to treatment, yellowish discharge with an unpleasant odor, bloody inclusions indicate endocrine disruption and more serious health problems. If the first rut does not occur for too long, when estrus lasts longer than two weeks, consultation with a veterinarian is required. Signs of ill health must be combated with means recommended by specialists.

Prolonged heat

In this state, the duration of the physiological phases of the process increases. The continuous rut ​​lasts more than two weeks, causing discomfort to the pet. A characteristic feature is the continued appearance of mucous discharge, accompanied by manifestations of aggression towards the male. Mating does not occur, fertilization does not occur, the mustachioed beauty remains excited. Prolonged stress makes the situation worse.

Anaphrodisia

This is the name for the condition of a fluffy beauty who is of childbearing age, but does not show any signs of sexual desire. Anaphrodisia (acyclia) is a characteristic sign of delayed puberty. If the female is not intended for breeding purebred offspring, she may not need treatment. The veterinarian examines the animal to rule out hyperfunction of the thyroid gland or adenohypophysis. If pregnancy is necessary, combination therapy with follicle-stimulating hormones is carried out: choriogonadotropin, folliculin, estrone.

False pregnancy

Only a veterinarian can accurately diagnose this condition. It is characterized by the same symptoms as for normal pregnancy:

• increased appetite;
• increased thirst;
• finding a secluded place;
• increased attention to small soft objects;
• swelling of the mammary glands;
• increase in abdominal size.

The problem is considered psychological and is seen as the result of prolonged stress. The sad result is purulent mastitis and similar diseases. Sphynxes have an innate tendency to show signs of false pregnancy.

Empty heat

Lack of fertilization is not considered a normal condition. If your pet does not become pregnant, the body experiences unwanted hormonal stress. The situation is complicated by the substances that caring owners give to calm the cat at this time. In the future, there is a high probability of developing dangerous diseases: mastitis, hyperplasia, cancer, ovarian cysts, polycystic disease, endometritis, purulent inflammation, etc. If you do not plan to get offspring from a cat, timely sterilization will be a choice in favor of her health.

Frequent heats

The average norm is two to four rutting periods per year, although much depends on temperament, breed, and genetic characteristics. It happens that the re-rut occurs too often, literally every week or two. This dangerous condition cannot be ignored. If mating is not planned, you need to show the animal to a veterinarian. Perhaps this is a manifestation of a serious gynecological disease, for example, polycystic disease. Treatment with hormones can be effective. If the problem is not resolved, castration is the next appropriate step.

Bloody discharge

The appearance of blood in mucous secretions indicates the presence of a serious pathology. It will not be possible to determine the cause “by eye”; a serious examination by an experienced veterinarian is necessary: ​​standard tests, histology, cytology, ultrasound, studies, the decision of which is made by a specialist. Some diseases develop rapidly. If you have bloody discharge, the most sensible step is to visit the clinic immediately.

Reasons for lack of estrus

Among the reasons for a long-term lack of desire to mate are:

• predisposition caused by genetic breed characteristics;
• dysfunction of the thyroid gland;
• endocrine shift;
• pathological condition of the ovaries;
• hermaphroditism, etc.

There are emotional factors that cause sexual dysfunction. Lack of hunting is observed in individuals that are kept indoors, do not have contact with other representatives of their species, and do not observe normal sexual behavior.

Purebred females over one and a half years old who are involved in breeding require treatment to restore the normal functioning of the reproductive organs. Pets kept for pleasure do not need such treatment. The veterinarian will examine the pet; if other pathologies do not appear, treatment is not necessary. Periodic preventive examinations will be required.

Sexual desire in a sterilized cat

The surgical procedure used to prevent pregnancy is commonly called sterilization. In practice, the animal undergoes one of three operations:

• tubal occlusion: tubal ligation;
• oophorectomy - removal of the ovaries;
• Ovariohysterectomy - simultaneous removal of the uterus and ovaries.

Tubal ligation does not stop the maturation of the follicles, creating an obstacle to the fertilized egg entering the uterus. The hormonal background does not undergo changes, the occurrence of heat in a pet that has been sterilized by tubal ligation is the norm. The cessation of sexual activity occurs as a result of oophorectomy or ovariohysterectomy. These two procedures protect the pet well from inflammation of the uterus, ovarian cancer, polycystic disease, and similar diseases.

Is it possible to sterilize a cat at this time?

Sterilization during the rutting period is strictly prohibited. A gross change in the development of hormonal processes will negatively affect the health of any animal. The procedure is recommended two weeks before or two weeks after the active phase.

Kittens predisposed to the development of mammary gland cancer are sterilized before the first heat, the permissible age is six months or a little more, weight is more than three kilograms. The rest are sterilized after the first heat. The signs are not always obvious; there is a danger of missing the deadline and performing the operation when the pet is in a state of activity, which is strictly contraindicated.

Use of hormone-based medications

Mustachioed pets cope with this difficult time in different ways. Some need a little affection and attention to survive this period, while others suffer from unsatisfied desire, despite the efforts of their owners. If the usual methods of calming down are powerless, you will have to turn to special means, tablets, drops, options that help relieve tension. When mating is not planned, sterilization is the right option.

The principle of operation of drugs of this type

Only hormones, natural or synthesized, can effectively influence the onset of sexual heat. Progesterone enters the body during pregnancy. A dose of progestin preparations administered during the rest period suppresses the effect of follicle-stimulating hormone. Estrogen, which provokes sexual desire, does not enter the blood, and the period of sexual desire is blocked. If hormonal medications are used incorrectly, your pet may die.

Types of drugs

Hormonal preparations of this type are available in tablet form, as drops for internal use or application to the withers. An effective, high-quality product contains a complex of hormones. Veterinarians often prescribe the following:

• “Stop-intim”, drops based on megestrol acetate, a synthetic analogue of progesterol, given orally with a treat, sugar or forcibly;
• “Contrasex”, drops, tablets containing synthetic hormones acetomepregenol, ethinyl estradiol;
• “Gestrenol” is a complex biohormonal preparation in the form of drops and tablets;
• “Sex barrier” - mepregenol acetate plus ethinyl estradiol, liquid, tablets;
• “Ovostop” is a complex of megestrol, proroxan, melatonin, drops on the withers.

Features of application

For health and safety reasons, it is best to consult your veterinarian first. Hormones are prescribed only to healthy animals; they are administered in strict accordance with the instructions. Progestins have many contraindications; a non-specialist cannot determine them by eye. You should not skip a dose or increase the dose to compensate for the missed dose of medication.

Non-extended-release medications must be taken for the entire prescribed period. Determining the dosage is the task of the veterinarian. Spontaneous use of hormonal contraceptives is unacceptable. It is forbidden to use progestin preparations during sexual heat, this is after the end of the active phase.

Hormones do not replace the sterilization procedure; their purpose is:

• delay the onset of the active phase if pregnancy is contraindicated for your pet for some time, after recent childbirth, cesarean section, gynecological problems;
• adjust the mating time, for example, until a suitable male is found;
• prevent pregnancy if immediate sterilization is contraindicated.

Within 24 hours after an unwanted mating, progestins can prevent unplanned pregnancy.

How to determine the right day

Taking hormonal drugs in the active phase will be a disaster for the cat. The third day of the period is considered critical; the process enters the active phase. Many females experience a quiet, mild estrus, which begins almost asymptomatically.

An inexperienced owner may not pay attention to the signs: Murka becomes thoughtful and affectionate. An important point is the behavior when stroking the sacrum. The pet characteristically arches, throws back its tail, sexual activity is in full swing, progestins cannot be given. When there is no such reaction, the use of the medicine is acceptable.

Hormonal injections

The veterinarian sometimes recommends a hormone injection using a long-acting drug. Usually it is Covinan or Depo-Provera. The first is based on proligestone (synthetic progesterone), a steroid that inhibits the processes in the animal’s body that cause sexual desire, reducing the concentration of luteinizing hormone.

After discontinuation of the drug, fertility is restored. Injections are given according to a strict schedule to minimize side effects. If diarrhea, vomiting, or undesirable effects occur, the drug is discontinued.

Depo-Provera was originally developed as a female contraceptive, but has found use in veterinary medicine. The basis of the drug is medroxyprogesterone, a synthetic substance that can suppress ovulation. Available in the form of suspension and tablets. These medications should absolutely not be used during estrus. At the end of use, the ability to produce offspring is restored.

Sterilization is the right choice

This is the most humane choice for a furry beauty who is no longer involved in breeding. It is recommended to sterilize a Murka taken into a home for love before her first heat. Cats are not people. They do not have the choice “to give birth or not to give birth.” Cat reality: “give birth or suffer.”

Empty estrus and thoughtless use of hormonal drugs lead to painful diseases that require expensive treatment. If your pet survives after medical procedures, sterilization is still inevitable.

Modern sterilization is a gentle procedure performed using laparoscopic equipment. The cost is moderate. One or more small cuts will be required. After a short recovery period, the pet will continue to live a full life, bringing joy to the home.

Sterilization increases the life expectancy of a pet by five to ten years. Murka will be able to calmly walk everywhere, and the owners will no longer worry about unwanted kittens.

Mistakes of owners in methods of calming down

The pet behaves unusually at this time, the owner needs to react correctly. You cannot respond to aggression with punishment or try to silence it with a shout. It is better to leave an irritated animal alone and give it time to recover.

Murka must have her own place, it is necessary to provide her with the opportunity to retire, especially if there is a dog or other pets in the house. You need to react in a similar way to any changes in behavior, for example, if she shits anywhere. Gradually, the body will return to normal, the correct habits will be restored.

Some people mistakenly consider valerian to be a sedative, but for fluffies it is a stimulant that increases sexual desire. Contact with valerian is undesirable during the rest period; during the active phase, the pathogen will cause harm; the drug must be removed out of reach.

You should not try to use Corvalol, Valocordin, glycine, motherwort, or “human” medications to calm the baby, without a veterinarian’s prescription; special feline homeopathy is preferable.

Catnip is used as a sedative, but it is a pathogen that acts much more mildly than valerian. Suitable for correcting the behavior of cats; use the product carefully during sexual activity. Sometimes there is a need to vaccinate, i.e. vaccinate or worm the cat during estrus. There are no significant contraindications for this, but permission from a veterinarian is required.

A terrible mistake would be uncontrolled, too long-term use of hormonal drugs. Using alternative sedatives is a temporary measure. Even if it is possible to relieve the symptoms, complications from empty heats are almost inevitable. The cat must be regularly mated with a male cat or sterilized.