Cat 'Periods': Do Felines Have Menstrual Cycles?

Cats, too, have a "menstrual" period, but we usually refer to it as their "heat" phase. And their physiological mechanisms differ significantly from those of humans!

Is a cat's menstrual period the same as its heat phase?

Human females' "menstrual" cycle, also known as the menstrual period, is characterized by bleeding that occurs after the endometrium is shed. The average menstrual cycle is about 28 days (approximately one month), which is why it's called "menstrual." However, cats do not have a fixed monthly cycle for their physiological changes, so veterinarians and animal scientists typically refer to this phase as the heat, rather than "menstrual."

When do cats experience their menstrual period?

Cats usually have their first heat around 6 months of age; however, this can vary by breed. Some earlymaturing cats may show signs of heat as early as 4 months, while others might not experience it until they are over a year old.

Cats' heat phases are related to the length of daylight, peaking in spring and autumn, and last approximately 610 days. The frequency of heat cycles can vary depending on the climate and daylight hours in different regions; in some places with longer daylight hours, female cats may even come into heat during the height of summer or throughout the year.

Cats are seasonal polyestrous animals, meaning they can come into heat every two weeks during the breeding season. If they are not mated during this time, they will quickly enter heat again, and the intervals between heats can become shorter if they remain unmated for extended periods.

Tip for cat owners: If your cat is continuously in heat without being mated, it's not good for their health. If bleeding occurs, seek veterinary care promptly.

Did you know that cats don't actually bleed during their menstrual period?

Unlike human females, cats are induced ovulators, meaning they only ovulate in response to mating. If they are not fertilized, the eggs travel through the uterus and are destroyed by white blood cells without being released from the body, so cats do not bleed during their menstrual period! Besides the lack of blood, their heat phase also doesn't involve significant swelling of the reproductive organs, and there may only be occasional clear discharge observed.

If you, as a cat owner, notice blood stains on your cat's reproductive area at home, it could be due to other diseases, such as pyometra, and you should seek veterinary care immediately.

Does a cat's menstrual behavior change?

Human emotions can be affected during their menstrual period; does the same happen with cats during their heat phase? Since the physiological changes in cats during their "menstrual" period are minimal, we observe their behavior to understand any changes!

Changes in behavior may include a lack of appetite, listlessness, frequent urination, a desire to cuddle with their owner, and whining.

The most noticeable change is often in their vocalizations and levels of affection. Whining is often heard at night, so be mindful of potential complaints from neighbors, as the sound can be very sharp and resemble a baby crying, which can be disruptive to sleep.

Additionally, cats in heat become very affectionate, often coming up to you and rubbing against your feet or rolling on the ground. If you stroke their back or get close to their reproductive area, cats will raise their tails to one side, lift their hindquarters, and paw at the ground, preparing for mating.

How should you care for your cat during their heat phase?

While cats may enjoy being extra affectionate during their heat, this phase can be physically and emotionally uncomfortable for them, often leading to anxiety, restlessness, and a decrease in appetite.

Besides spending more time with your feline friend and supplementing with calming nutrients to help soothe their mood, the best approach is to address the root of the issue. Early spaying or neutering can prevent your cat from suffering and can also avoid related diseases.