Cats in heat can be annoying because of their loud yowling and excessive purring. But you must realize that it is a part of nature. And you have to know too that heat cycles can start as early as 4 1/2 months. Your cats may look young, but do not let it tricks you. If you sense any unusual behaviors, then they might be a sign of your cat looking for a mate. And you may have asked, “How long do cats stay in heat?” Well, you may not like the answer as cats can be in the heat for up to 20 weeks a year.
However, overpopulating your area with cats is also not a wise choice as cats are detrimental to birds and reptiles. You have to control your cat’s breeding urge.
1. Give Extra Attention
Petting and brushing can be a quick solution to calm your cat down during the heat cycle. And you can confirm their estrus period if you notice them arching their back down when you pet them.
Usually, your cat will appreciate your petting on their back and their lower back. The part below the chin can also calm them down. However, remember that not all cats like to be rubbed on their belly.
2. Get Them a Retreat Place
Some cats may appreciate the extra attention, while others may not. If your cat belongs to the second group, then you should prepare a place for them to be left alone, but it is not a cage! Caging your cats can cause the discomforts they feel to be more severe.
Get them an indoor cat house, a private place that can keep them within your vicinity but with some privacy. You can pet them only if they ask for it. And yes, cats can be that arrogant.
3. Dose Them with Catnip
Ground catnip leaves are the miracle drug you can ethically give to your cat during their heat cycle. It is a natural sedative for cats that can be effective in diverting your cat’s mind from breeding. Besides, cats on catnip will feel less discomfort caused by the heat cycle.
4. Neuter Your Cat
If you decide not to breed your cat, then neutering it will be your best solution. However, there is no redoing this step once it is done. Once neutered, your cats will be more home-loving because they won’t get driven by their hormones to seek mates and wander around. Second, your cat will also be healthier and live longer. Therefore, neutering your cat actually has more benefits than keeping them sexually productive.