Spayed Cat Still Estrous: Possible Reasons Explained
Why Does a Neutered Male Cat Still Mate?
1. Immediately following neutering, a cat's hormone levels can take several weeks to stabilize. During this time, the cat may still exhibit mating behaviors as its hormonal balance adjusts.
2. There could be underlying issues such as cryptorchidism (undescended testicles) or other hormonal problems. One way to check for this is by examining the cat's penis for a spur. Typically, if a spur is present, it suggests cryptorchidism, which occurs in less than 1% to 3% of cases and is more common in certain breeds.
3. If a cat was neutered later in life, it might retain its previous mating habits due to the time it spent as a fertile cat. External stimuli, such as the sounds of a female cat in heat, can also trigger mating behaviors in them.
Why Does a Spayed Female Cat Still Mate?
1. The issue of a spayed female cat still showing mating behaviors could also be due to hormonal fluctuations in the first few weeks postspaying.
2. There may be an ovarian issue, meaning the spaying was not complete, leaving a portion of the ovaries intact, which can lead to mating behaviors.
3. External hormonal influences, such as the cat ingesting hormonebased ointments or suffering from adrenal disorders, can cause symptoms resembling estrus.
It's important to note that spaying should not be done during estrus. If a cat exhibits mating behaviors after being spayed, it's crucial to review the situation carefully. If you're unsure, it's best to consult a pet store professional, a veterinarian, or an online pet healthcare expert. They can help determine whether the behavior is due to estrus, stressinduced mounting, or another issue.
