A cat comes into heat when she sexually matures, meaning that she is fertile and receptive to mating. Cats can reach puberty at different ages depending on breed and environment, but may experience their first heat as young as 4 months old, with 6 months being the average age. Outdoor cats can mature more quickly, particularly when there are intact males around.
Cats can breed year-round in Southern California where winters are mild, with the heaviest “kitten season” running from March through September. Heat cycles can last upwards of 2 weeks. 
If your cat is older than 4 months and exhibiting the following signs, she is in heat:
- “Cat Calling” – Howling and loud vocalization are used to attract males. Her meowing could even begin to sound as if she’s in pain.
- Affection – Even normally cuddly cats will begin paying extra attention to people, other pets, and furniture! Watch out for increases in rubbing her head and bottom, rolling on the floor, and weaving between legs.
- Mating Position – When petted, your cat will assume the mating position, dropping her head, laying her front half low, and raising her hindquarters with her tail pushed aside. Her rear legs will tread up and down as if she’s “making biscuits.”
- Spraying – Watch out for urine spray on vertical surfaces. Your cat will accomplish this by backing up to a wall (or other surface), raising her tail, and perhaps treading her back legs, while spraying. Her urine, which will be heavily scented with estrogen, also serves to attract a mate.
- Licking – Your cat may over-groom and lick her genital area, which will appear swollen and moist.
- Other things to watch for:
- Escape attempts – Indoor cats will do their best to escape outside to seek a male partner.
- Excessive licking without other symptoms (or if your cat is already spayed) – This can be a sign of Urinary Tract Infection.
FixNation can perform sterilization surgery even when a cat is in heat. Book your appointment today to have your cat spayed.
