Get your feather toys ready folks, because it’s time to uncover the secrets of the she-cat heatwave!
We all know our feline friends can be mysterious creatures, but when it comes to matters of the heart (or rather, the heat), they sure know how to make their desires known. If you've ever wondered what it's like to have a feline femme fatale on your hands, read on to decode the unmistakable signs that your fluffy diva is ready to bring the heat to town.
From physical signs to courting behaviors, we're about to dive into the fascinating world of feline friskiness. So, grab a cup of catnip tea, and let's discover 5 signs that indicate your feline lady is crankin' up the heat!
Sign 1 - Nipple Color
Usually, your kitty’s nipples are flesh-colored and not distinctly discernible from the surrounding skin. When she is about to be in heat, they become bright pink and are immediately noticeable.
Sign 2 - Nipple Swelling
When your cat is in heat the hormones that are forming in her body can cause the skin surrounding her nipples to swell.
Sign 3 - Increased Desire to Escape
When your normal home-loving kitty is trying to emulate Harry Houdini at every opportunity, it’s time to be extra careful. Cats in heat have a natural desire to roam outdoors to spread their scent in the hopes of finding a receptive male. It's important to keep a close watch on her during this time to prevent an accidental pregnancy. Keep cat flaps locked, and windows closed, and take your cat outdoors only under supervision.
It is important to invest in a high-quality harness to keep your cat safe outside. This is my personal favorite escape-proof harness.
Sign 4 - Unusual Behavior
There are a number of typical behaviors that your baby girl may exhibit when she is coming into heat. These include,
Crying for hours at a time for a few days
Rolling on the floor
Rubbing herself on all sorts of surfaces
Crawling low along the ground
Putting her buttocks in the air
Sign 5 - Other Cats Reactions
If you have other cats in your home (either male or female) they may sense and react to the hormonal changes occurring in your female cat. You may find them exhibiting mounting behavior, biting her on the back of the neck or even doing a little dance on their back.
If you notice any of these behaviors it is best to schedule an appointment to get your queen spayed. Here is some information about the best time to spay your kitten. Choosing a qualified and experienced vet is an important part of being a responsible cat parent - here is a great resource to help you choose a holistic cat-centered vet.
