Q&A for How to Tell If Your Cat Is in Heat

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Is it painful to the cat when she goes into heat?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

No. Cats sometimes roll around and yowl when they are in heat, but this behavior is meant to attract a mate. It is not a sign of pain.

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Question

Do they pee once they are in heat?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

This is a tricky question because a female cat in heat does produce hormones which she passes in her urine, so she does value her pee as a way of advertising she wants a boyfriend. This can show itself as urine marking in the house. However, the signs are pretty similar for a urinary tract infection, which needs attention from your vet. If your cat has developed strange toileting habits then it's safest to get her checked over.

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Question

Can I spay my cat while she is in heat?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

Yes, although it can be more dangerous. Some vets do charge more for the surgery if the cat is in heat.

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Question

Is there a mucous discharge when your cat is in heat?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

No. When a cat is in heat, there is not usually a noticeable discharge. If your cat has a persistent discharge, then it might be due to an infection. Take your cat to see a veterinarian to determine the cause of this discharge.

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Question

My cat is hiding a lot, does this mean she is in heat?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

Not necessarily. Hiding toys can be a sign of nesting behavior (rather than heat) or just plain playfulness!

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