• Wailing, yowling, meowing or moaning more than usual (known as calling)
• Restlessness
• Arched back
• General discomfort, or being a bit under the weather
• Low crawling, or moving her tail to the side
• Excessive grooming/licking
• More affectionate than usual – rubbing on furniture and even your ankles

A common question we’re asked is “does a cat in heat bleed?”. The answer is no – unlike with a dog’s heat cycle, cats in heat don’t bleed. If you do notice blood around your cat’s genitals or in their urine, it could be a sign of urinary tract infection or other condition, so you should call your vet straight away. Another question lots of feline owners ask is “does a cat in heat feel pain?” Though cats may seem uncomfortable and irritated while they’re in heat, it isn’t usually painful; if you think your cat is in pain, it may be an idea to have them checked out by your vet.

How long a cat is in heat can vary, but generally lasts on average around six to seven days. If the cat is bred or mated during the season, the heat cycle doesn’t usually last longer than a few days. However, if the cat goes unmated, the heat cycle can last for up to approximately 10 days and reoccurs in intervals of around two to three weeks. Unbred female cats can come into heat (cycle) every few weeks for an indefinite period during the season.

Cats go into heat seasonally, which is known as being ‘seasonally polyestrous’. They have several cycles within each breeding season, which are dictated by environmental factors including daylight and temperature. In the UK, cats generally come into season around the beginning of spring, and continue until late autumn – cats that live in warmer climates (or sometimes indoor cats) may be prone to come into heat all year round.

Naturally, first-time cat owners will have lots of questions about how to care for a cat in heat. What to do, things to buy, and how to help are all common questions. Your cat will feel uncomfortable, out of sorts and generally under the weather – and will be especially confused if it’s her first season.

• Try to keep your cat as distracted as possible, using games and new toys – a treat-filled toy is a great distraction.
• Make sure her litter box is clean.
• Have blankets, heat packs, or a warmed towel nearby for comfort.
• Keep your cat indoors, and away from other (male) cats.
• Give her lots of attention by playing games.

Cats are at their most fertile during their heat cycle, so your feline friend will likely be on the lookout for a mate during this time. Equally, male cats will come looking for her, attracted by her scent, so it’s important to make sure any cat flaps are kept closed, and doors aren’t left ajar where possible.

Unless you’re sure you want your cat bred to have kittens, it’s a good idea to think about getting her neutered as soon as possible.

It’s usually recommended that cats are spayed or neutered around 4-6 months old – just after they’ve had their main vaccinations. However, it’s perfectly fine to spay older cats, and some vets may recommend waiting a few months longer before completing the procedure. Of course, if you’re sure you don’t want your cat to have kittens, it’s important to have her spayed as soon as possible to avoid unwanted pregnancies. Neutering also prevents womb infections and reduces the risk of mammary tumours – ask your vet for advice if you’re not sure whether to have your cat spayed.