Will Cats Have Periods? A Look Inside

Why is this the case?

It's because cats are quite unique; they only ovulate when they are in heat, which is triggered by mating. However, this doesn't guarantee successful fertilization. If fertilization doesn't occur, the eggs in a cat's body are destroyed by leukocytes, rather than being expelled like in humans.

So, the difference between the estrous cycles of cats and humans is as follows:

Humans have a mature follicle develop and release an egg each month, alternating sides. During this time, the body prepares an abundant supply of nutrients, ready to combine with sperm and孕育 new life. If conception doesn't happen during this period, the excess nutrients, influenced by estrogen and progesterone, lead to the periodic shedding of the uterine lining every 2830 days, resulting in menstruation.

Cats, on the other hand, only ovulate in response to mating, and without pregnancy, they do not experience menstruation.

Cat Estrous Cycle

Would humans envy cats?

While cats may not have the烦恼 of menstruation, their heat cycles can be far more distressing than human women's experiences!

During their estrous cycle, cats become extremely restless and difficult to control under the influence of hormones. They are driven to seek out male cats, often exhibiting behaviors like yowling, loss of appetite, squatting, and inappropriate urination.

The estrous cycle in female cats typically begins in the spring as days get longer and ends as the weather cools. Each cycle lasts about 7 to 14 days, and if they are not pregnant, it restarts again 14 to 21 days later. This frequency is much higher than the menstrual cycle, and repeated heat cycles without pregnancy can significantly increase the risk of pyometra.

This is because the ovaries secrete large amounts of progesterone, which can stimulate the growth and secretion of the uterine lining. As a result, the uterus accumulates fluid, causing it to swell. Over time, the fluid builds up, and if bacteria enter the uterus, they can multiply rapidly, leading to the formation of pus.

In the early stages of pyometra, cats may not show any obvious symptoms, making it hard to detect. As the condition progresses, changes may include decreased appetite, an enlarged abdomen, and frequent licking of the vulva. By the later stages, the abdomen becomes significantly larger.

Pyometra generally occurs in two types: open and closed.

Open Pyometra:

In female cats, the vagina continuously discharges pus or puslike material, which the cat may lick away, making it hard to notice.

Closed Pyometra:

There is no vaginal discharge, but the cat may still lick the area.

As pyometra progresses, cats may exhibit symptoms like fever, loss of appetite, vomiting, weakness, and weight loss.

Pyometra can be lifethreatening to cats, as it can lead to severe anemia. If not treated promptly, it can result in rapid death.

The best solution for treating estrous cycles and pyometra in cats is to have them spayed. This not only prevents the distress of heat cycles but also reduces the risk of pyometra.

In conclusion, female cats do not menstruate! If you notice any bleeding from your cat's vagina, it is usually a sign of a medical condition. In such cases, it's best to seek veterinary care immediately!