I do have an unspayed female cat called Bella, so I understand a little about the behaviors of female cat in heat because my cat Bella goes through heat too.
While reading this post, keep in mind that am not a veterinarian, am just a cat owner and lover trying to share my experience with my cat through this post.
In this post, I’ll be sharing my thoughts on some common behaviors of female cat in heat, so keep reading to find out more!
Behaviors of Female Cat in Heat
Based on my experience with Bella and my chat with some of my friends who also own unspayed female cat, here are some common behavior of female cat in heat:
1. Rubbing against furniture or other surfaces
Based on what I observed from my cat “Bella” I can tell you that one of the most noticeable behaviors of a female cat in heat is her increased desire to rub against furniture or other surfaces.
This behavior, known as “head-butting” or “bunting,” is her way of marking her territory and releasing pheromones.
You will also observe her rubbing her face, cheeks, and body against objects, including your legs.
This behavior is a clear indication that she is in heat and seeking attention and stimulation.
To help your female cat during this time, I recommend you should provide her with plenty of interactive toys and play sessions.
You should also engage her in playful activities, will redirect her energy and keep her mentally and physically stimulated.
From what I gathered from my friends who own female cats, they said you should also consider using pheromone sprays or diffusers designed to calm and relax cats, which may help reduce her need to mark her territory excessively.
2. Constant attempts to escape outside to find a mate
When a female cat is in heat, her instinctual drive to reproduce is heightened, leading to constant attempts to escape outside in search of a mate, and she will become more vocal, yowl, and scratch at doors or windows.
It’s important to be vigilant during this time to prevent any accidental escapes, as outdoor mating can expose your cat to various risks, including injury, disease, and unwanted pregnancies.
To ensure your female cat’s safety during heat period, you should keep her indoors and provide her with a stimulating environment that mimics the outdoors.
I suggest you should consider creating a cat-friendly space with scratching posts, climbing trees, and window perches where she can observe the outside world safely.
I also believe that engaging her in playtime and offering puzzle toys can help distract her from her strong desire to mate.
3. Pacing or restlessness
My cat Bella is always pacing and restless when she’s in heat, so I believe restlessness and pacing are common behaviors exhibited by female cats in heat.
They may continuously walk back and forth, display signs of agitation, or exhibit excessive grooming behaviors.
These behaviors stem from the hormonal changes occurring within their bodies, and they generally indicate their eagerness to mate.
To help alleviate your female cat’s restlessness, I believe you should create a calm and soothing environment.
You should try to provide your female cat with a quiet space where she can retreat and relax.
I also recommend you consider using soft bedding and playing calming music to create a peaceful atmosphere.
Engaging in gentle strokes and grooming sessions can also help soothe her and provide comfort during this time.
4. Spraying and marking her territory
During the heat cycle, female cats may spray urine to mark their territory and attract potential mates.
This behavior is often accompanied by increased vocalization, restlessness, and rubbing against objects.
While spraying is more commonly associated with male cats, female cats in heat may exhibit this behavior as well.
To minimize spraying and marking behaviors, ensure your cat has access to clean litter boxes, preferably in multiple locations.
Regularly clean and maintain the litter boxes to encourage her to use them consistently.
Additionally, consult with your veterinarian about the possibility of spaying your cat, as this can significantly reduce or eliminate these behaviors altogether.
5. Loud and persistent meowing or yowling
One of the most apparent signs that your female cat is in heat is her loud and persistent meowing or yowling.
This vocalization is her way of attracting potential male mates. You may notice her meowing more frequently, especially during the night, as she tries to communicate her availability to male cats in the area.
To provide comfort for your female cat and minimize the disruption caused by her vocalizations, you should create a calming environment.
You should also provide or offer her a quiet and cozy space where she can retreat and feel secure.
Additionally, you should consider using white noise machines or playing soothing music to help mask outside sounds that may trigger her vocalizations.
6. Increased affection and attention-seeking behavior
When a female cat is in heat, she will display increased affection and seek more attention from her human companions.
She may will against your legs, purr loudly, and demand more physical contact.
This behavior is her way of seeking comfort and companionship during this hormonal phase.
To support your female cat’s need for attention, set aside dedicated playtime and interactive sessions.
You should also engage her with her favorite toys and provide extra affectionate strokes and cuddles.
Channeling her energy into play can help distract her from the intensity of her heat cycle and provide her with the stimulation she craves.
7. Excessive grooming and licking their genital area
Based on my discussion with some of my friends and what I found online, another behavior commonly observed in female cats in heat is excessive grooming and licking of their genital area.
This behavior is a natural response to the hormonal changes occurring in their bodies, you should notice your female cat spending more time grooming her lower abdomen and genital region.
To ensure your female cat’s comfort and prevent any skin irritation or infection, monitor her grooming habits closely.
If you notice excessive licking or signs of discomfort, consult your veterinarian for guidance.
In some cases, they may recommend gentle cleansing solutions or provide medication to alleviate any discomfort.
8. Displaying a receptive body posture
A female cat in heat may exhibit a receptive body posture, also known as lordosis.
This behavior involves her assuming a crouched position with her rear end elevated and her tail held to the side.
This posture is an instinctual response to signal her readiness to mate.
While this behavior is natural, it’s crucial to keep your cat indoors during her heat cycle to prevent unwanted pregnancies and exposure to potential health risks.
You should ensure her living space is enriched with toys, scratching posts, and climbing structures to provide mental and physical stimulation.
This will help redirect her focus and energy away from the mating instinct.
9. Rolling around on the floor and increased activity level
When a female cat is in heat, she may engage in playful and energetic behavior, including rolling around on the floor.
This behavior is often accompanied by an increased activity level, as she tries to release pent-up energy and seek attention and stimulation.
To address your female cat’s need for activity, provide her with interactive toys and engage in regular play sessions.
Playtime is not only physically stimulating but also mentally enriching for your cat.
You should also consider using puzzle toys that require her to work for treats or engage in activities that mimic hunting, such as chasing a feather wand or batting at a toy.
10. Clear vaginal discharges
During the heat cycle, female cats may have clear vaginal discharges. These discharges are a normal part of the reproductive process and serve to facilitate mating.
You may notice small droplets or wetness around the genital area.
While clear vaginal discharges are generally harmless, it’s always a good idea to monitor your cat’s overall health.
If you notice any changes in the color, consistency, or odor of the discharge, or if your cat seems uncomfortable or in pain, consult your veterinarian for further evaluation.
Related: Behaviors of a female cat after mating.
How to help a female cat in heat
When your female cat is in heat, there are a few things you can do to help her through this period.
First, I recommend you provide a comfortable and quiet space for her to relax and rest.
Second, you should consider using pheromone sprays or diffusers to help calm her down.
Third, you should try to distract her with interactive toys or puzzles to redirect her attention.
Fourth, you should also make sure she has access to fresh water and a balanced diet.
Finally, I advise you consult with your veterinarian to discuss potential options like spaying or medication to manage her heat cycles.
Related: Common behavior of unspayed female cat.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, understanding the behaviors of female cats in heat is crucial for cat owners.
By recognizing signs like increased vocalization, restlessness, and affectionate behavior, owners can provide appropriate care and ensure a safe environment for their feline companions.
Remember, spaying your female cat is the most effective way to prevent unwanted pregnancies and minimize the impact of these behaviors.
