Cats don’t menstruate. However, when a female cat is in heat, she may urinate more frequently or spray urine on vertical objects. This urine contains pheromones and hormones that signal her reproductive status to other cats.
What Happens During a Cat’s Heat Cycle?
A cat’s heat cycle is typically 3-6 weeks long and occurs about every 2-3 months. The heat cycle is triggered by an increase in estrogen levels, which causes the cat’s ovaries to release eggs. The cat will then exhibit a number of behavioral changes that are designed to attract a mate.
Physical Changes
- Increased vocalization, including meowing, yowling, and howling
- Increased affection, including rubbing against people and furniture
- Increased grooming
- Raised tail
- Swollen vulva
- Spotting in some cats
Behavioral Changes
Increased urination outside of the litter box. This is because cats use urine to mark their territory, and during their heat cycle they are trying to attract a mate.
Urinary Habits of Cats
Cats are very clean animals and they typically use a litter box to eliminate. However, there are a number of reasons why a cat may urinate outside of the litter box, including:
- A dirty litter box
- A medical condition, such as a urinary tract infection
- Stress
- Behavioral problems, such as marking territory
Can Cats Urinate During Heat?
Yes, it is possible for cats to urinate during heat. This is because cats use urine to mark their territory, and during their heat cycle they are trying to attract a mate.
Why it May Occur?
There are a number of reasons why a cat may urinate outside of the litter box during heat. These include:
- A dirty litter box. Cats are very clean animals and they will not use a litter box if it is dirty.
- A medical condition. A urinary tract infection can cause a cat to urinate more frequently and outside of the litter box.
- Stress. Cats can be stressed by a number of things, such as a new pet in the home, a change in routine, or loud noises. Stress can cause a cat to urinate outside of the litter box.
- Behavioral problems. Some cats may urinate outside of the litter box as a way of marking their territory. This is more common in male cats, but it can also occur in female cats.
Managing Urinary Accidents During a Cat’s Heat
If your cat is urinating outside of the litter box during heat, there are a number of things you can do to manage the problem. These include:
- Keeping the litter box clean. Scoop the litter box at least once a day and completely change the litter every week.
- Providing a comfortable and stress-free environment. Make sure your cat has a safe place to retreat to when she is feeling stressed.
- Consulting a veterinarian. If you are concerned about your cat’s health, or if the urination problem is severe, consult a veterinarian.
- Using products to prevent marking behavior. There are a number of products available that can help to prevent cats from marking their territory. These products typically contain pheromones that cats find calming.
