Cats do get their periods, just like any other mammal. For cats, it’s typically referred to as their heat cycle. Just like for humans, a cat’s period starts once it reaches puberty. While the concept of their periods might be similar, there is a huge difference between the periods of cats and other animals. 

What are the Phases of A Cat’s Period?

A cat’s period or heat cycles typically last for several days to two weeks, but this can take longer. Just like with all the different female reproductive cycles, cats also have their own four stages. These are the of a cat’s period or heat cycle:

1. Anestrus

This is the phase wherein the cat is still in its inactive stage for about 2 to 3 months. Cats in the anestrus phase have no desire to perform acts of sexual activity with other cats. In other words, the cats are not in heat in this phase and are in their dormant period. 

2. Proestrus

This is the next stage of the cat’s period or heat cycle. In this stage, the cats exhibit increased energy, restlessness, and affection. The proestrous phase typically lasts for 1-2 days and is typically where they start to get increased levels of estrogen. But cats at this stage don’t usually respond to mating advances yet. 

3. Estrus

This is the most obvious phase of a cat’s period. This is the phase where the cat is actually in “heat.” The estrus phase lasts for about 2 to 19 days and will be the period of increased changes in your cat. 

The estrus is sometimes called the mating/breeding phase due to the cat’s behavioral changes. These changes are associated with your cat’s desire to participate in sexual activity with other cats. Some of the changes you will notice in your cat during the estrus phase are:

• Excessive and loud howling, yowling, and meowing

• Ecstatic and overly energetic movements

• Assuming a sexual position

• Increased affection toward owners

• Frequent urination

• Increased agitation and pacing

4. Diestrus or Interestrus

After the estrus phase, one of two possible phases will occur for your cat. These two possible phases are the diestrus and interestrus phases. Each has its own characteristics based on the sexual activity of your cat during its heat cycle. 

• If your cat does not mate or ovulate, she will undergo the interetrus phase. This phase in a cat’s period lasts for about 2 to 3 weeks, and the changes from the estrus phase will soon decrease and dissipate. The cycle starts once again after this phase. 

• If your cat does mate and ovulate, she will undergo the diestrus phase, which signals the end of the cat’s period. The fertilized eggs will develop into embryos in the uterus. The pregnancy stage lasts for around 63 days.

When Do Cats Get Periods?

A kitten will experience its first heat cycle after 4 to 6 months of age. Cats are polyoestrous, which means they experience their period heat cycles multiple times during the breeding season, usually every two to three weeks. 

Interestingly, the frequency of their heat cycles depends on their geography. Some cats have heat cycles all year round due to the warmer climate surrounding the region and also due to the abundance of daylight hours. Others, especially those in the Northern Hemisphere, have their cycles right from January until late fall.

What to Do When Your Cat Gets Her Period?

A cat’s heat cycle is a significant part of her and your life. It’s a period of increased behavioral changes that are sure to be noticed even from the slightest changes. At this time, it’s important to tend to your cat as she can be very affectionate and needy. 

Your cat might also be in distress, and only you can help her get through her cycle. To help your cat get through this painful period, here are some of the ways you can do to help:

1. Provide Comfort

Providing comfort in this stressful time is always a good way to go. Your cat needs comfort now more than ever due to the stressful changes from her period. Start by giving your cat comfortable pillows and bedding. Also, clean her litter box. The physical comfort is a surefire way to get your cat as comfortable as possible. 

In addition to keeping a comfortable physical situation, make sure that your cat’s environment is calm, quiet, and serene. Any loud noises will surely make her stress even more. A good ambient environment will go a long way in keeping your cat comfortable during her period.

2. Help Her Eat

Cats don’t feel like eating during their periods. This can be bad for their health, which is already concerning given all the other changes present during their period. Preparing a nutrient-sufficient meal for them should be at the top of your list. As they may lose their appetite, you may try positioning her bowl strategically to avoid the noise. 

You can start helping your cat eat by creating a good environment that makes her feel comfortable. After this, you could try uplifting your cat’s period experience with a couple of treats. Make sure it is nice and warm, as cats prefer warm and fresh food over cold ones.

3. Keep Her Indoors

Your cat’s indoor home helps provide a sense of safety and security. Through square walls and comfortable areas, you can avoid any noise, danger, and injury from ever causing stress to your cat during her period. With this, your cat will feel better during her period. 

Since cats with periods become super energetic and affectionate, it’s advisable to keep them indoors, especially when you are not ready for some cute kittens. Cats tend to go around and find a way to escape and fulfill their own needs. Creating a secure perimeter is the way to go.

4. Provide Distractions

Distractions help your cat to keep her mind off the pain and stress. During your cat’s period, distractions such as toys and playtime will help ease the pain and stress she is feeling. You could also use food, treats, bedding, and your cat’s favorite things to help.

In general, caring for your cat by providing affection and attention is a good way for you to entertain her. Your presence is a great distraction that helps your cat feel secure and not alone.

5. Ask the Vets

When it comes to a cat’s period, our vets are experts in helping. We can answer any question you might have about a cat’s heat cycle and a couple of tips on how to manage your best friend at home. 

We offer advice and guidance, checkups, exams, and medicines to help your cat during her period. We also recommend spaying and neutering your cat to improve its well-being, reduce the risk of certain cancers, and eliminate the heat cycle altogether.

6. Use Pheromone Sprays

Pheromones are the chemicals cats use to give signals to communicate with each other. These pheromones translate to a variety of meanings depending on what these cats want to portray. 

Cats use pheromones to create a bond, attract mates, mark territories, and also signal emotions. These chemicals are important in how these cats interact with their surroundings and are essential to how they live.

Pheromones can also be synthetically produced to create products that aid our cats in their struggles. These are easy to use and depend on the status of your cat’s needs and lifestyle. These are the three common types of pheromone products available for cat owners:

• Diffusers

Diffusers work just like normal oil diffusers, except they diffuse pheromones around the room where your cat is. This helps them handle all the changes during a cat’s period by exhibiting pheromones that help reduce their stress.

• Calming Sprays

These are hand-held sprays that allow owners to use them while outside their homes. This is most especially useful in situations concerning travel since it can be easily sprayed onto a car seat whenever cats urinate.

• Collars

Collars act like disposable pheromone items that can be worn by cats. This is useful for any outdoor activity since the collar provides relief. Cats with periods can get really stressed.

What is Spaying and Neutering a Cat?

Spaying and neutering your cat helps provide a range of benefits it can enjoy. While they lose the ability to reproduce, they get several health benefits, such as:

• Removes the risk of ovarian, uterine, and testicular cancer

• Lowers the risk of pyometra

• Reduces roaming and marking

• Improves well-being

• Eliminates the behavioral changes

• Manages the cat population

Conclusion

A cat’s period is a big part of their lives. While a cat’s heat cycle occurs almost always, it’s important to note that this part of their lives is just one of our responsibilities as owners of these beloved creatures. We must understand that the period of cats is in their nature, and our job is to be there for them and support them every step of the way. Learning how to take care of them shows our love and patience for our cats.