Male cats reach sexual maturity at the age of 6 to 12 months. At about 2 to 3 months old, the penile spines, a special feature on the feline penis to induce ovulation (the release of eggs from the ovary) after copulation, start to grow on male kittens. At the age of 5 to 6 months, cats’ testicles will reach their maximum size, become fully mature and start to produce sperms. Penile spines will also finish their growth at this time, which indicates that the male cats are ready to mate with adult females to produce kittens.
On one hand male cats only come into heat during breeding season but on the other hand they can copulate anytime throughout the year. Reproduction activities happen most during spring when female cats come into heat and male cats have increased libido.
Behavioral Changes:
• Vocalize loudly, particularly during nighttime.
• Be attracted to females by the scent of pheromones. They will become restless and may try to run away to meet their partner.
• Mark their territories by spraying (urinating in different spots), which is a signal to warn other males not to enter the area.
• Increase grooming and licking the area around the genitalia to avoid infection during mating.
• Show increased aggression towards other intact males and may fight each other for the chance to mate with a female.
Most cats become mature between four months to one year old. Cats are seasonally polyestrous, that means they go into heat for multiple times a year. Cats kept indoor have the potential to have continuous heat cycles throughout the year.
The estrous cycles range from one to six weeks, or 21 days on average. Cats remain on their estrus cycles for 5-6 days in general.
Cats are known to be induced ovulators, their eggs are released from the ovary after copulation with toms, while other mammals release eggs before mating.
• The female cat usually produces loud and strange sounds to attract potential males (toms) outdoor for mating.
• They tend to seek for attention. The female cat becomes restless and anxious, raising its tail and rubbing its caudal part and head against their owners or an object to relax and constantly wanting attention.
• Unneutered male cats that have never seen before in a neighborhood will appear.
• Excessive licking of the area around the genitalia, that may lead to the minor swelling of the vulva. Presence of a small amount of clear and transparent discharge from the vulva can be seen. However, any discharge from a spayed cat could indicate an infection in the tract.
• Female cats usually extend their forelegs and raise their hindquarters for males to perform more efficiently.
• Roll on the ground. However, this could indicate abdominal pain. If the rolling is accompanied by no other signs of heat, visit a veterinarian for a detailed checkup.
• Some female cats urinate more frequently in different places. The urine contains chemical compounds known as pheromones which acts as signals of their reproductive status to attract male cats.
The arrival of heat is an indicator of sexual maturity. When a female cat comes into heat, certain hormones will be released in that body, which causes more restlessness and vocalizing, initiating an urge to mate.
1. Pheromones
These are chemical compounds synthesized in the body and released in the urine of females during heat. These can be detected from a long distance by males, allowing them to trace the females for mating. If you do not want your cat to get pregnant, keep her indoors and away from non-castrated males to avoid any accidents.
2. Supplements
The female should be well prepared as pregnancy requires a lot of energy. It is essential to take good care of your cat and give her a healthy and sufficient diet during this time. Please consult a veterinarian before giving medications or supplements to a pregnant cat.
3. How to calm a cat in heat
When a female cat is in heat, she may be restless and uncomfortable. Some cats may desire your attention, while some may want to be alone. Be patient with her and try to understand her needs. Environmental stimulation such as playing with toys may help divert her attention. Some female cats in heat may also show their presence by marking their territory and urinating around the house. Keep her litter box clean and remove her markings to help tackle this problem.
Catnip may have soothing effects on a cat’s behaviour, which can help calm her down for 10-20 minutes.
Owners who do not want their cats to get pregnant might choose to spay their cats to avoid complications.
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