Cat Care
How Long Do Cats Stay in Heat? Signs and How to Help
How long do cats stay in heat? A heat (estrus) usually lasts about a week, anywhere from 3 to 14 days. If she doesn't mate, an unspayed cat can come back into heat every few weeks during the breeding season, which in many places runs from late winter through autumn. Spaying is the only way to stop heat cycles for good.
Cat heat cycle at a glance
| Question | Typical answer |
|---|---|
| How long does one heat last? | About a week; 3–14 days |
| How often? | Every few weeks in breeding season if she doesn't mate |
| Breeding season | Peaks in late winter and spring and often continues into autumn; indoor cats under artificial light may cycle year-round |
| First heat | Usually 5–9 months old; sometimes as early as 3–4 months |
| Do cats bleed? | Usually not. Vaginal bleeding needs a vet |
Figures follow PetMD's guide to cats in heat.
Signs your cat is in heat
- Loud, frequent yowling, especially at night
- Extra affection: rubbing on people and furniture
- Rolling on the floor
- Raising her rear with her tail to one side when stroked along the back
- Restlessness and trying to get outside
- Sometimes eating less or urine marking
These signs can look dramatic and people sometimes think their cat is in pain. If you're unsure, call your vet.
How to help a cat in heat
- Keep her indoors and keep male cats away. Check windows and doors.
- Play more with wand toys to burn off restless energy.
- Offer warmth such as a heated pad on low or a cosy bed.
- Keep routines steady and give extra gentle attention if she wants it.
- Talk to your vet about spaying.
When should I spay my cat?
Many vets recommend spaying at around 5 to 6 months, before the first heat. Cats can be spayed while in heat, though some vets prefer to wait. Spaying prevents unplanned litters and stops heat cycles. Ask your vet about the right timing for your cat.
When to call the vet
Call your vet if you see vaginal discharge or any bleeding, if she stops eating, or has vomiting or diarrhoea. Bleeding from the vulva is an emergency in cats.
Frequently asked questions
How long is a cat in heat?
Usually about a week, ranging from 3 to 14 days.
How often do cats go into heat?
An unspayed cat that doesn't mate can return to heat every few weeks during the breeding season.
At what age do cats go into heat?
Most have their first heat between 5 and 9 months old, but some start at 3 or 4 months.
Do cats bleed when in heat?
Usually not. Unlike dogs, cats in heat rarely show bleeding, so any bleeding needs a vet.
Can I spay my cat while she's in heat?
Yes, it's possible, though some vets prefer to wait until the heat ends. Ask your vet.
Sources
Guidance follows PetMD. This article is general information, not veterinary advice.
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