Usually, a cat goes into a heat period twice a year, and to calm her down Q tip method is used. Following this method, the Q tip is stuck into the private part of the cat, and then it is pushed in and out. This is done to help the cat calm down during the heat period.
You need to continue with this process until and unless the cat feels relaxed. However, if the Q tip is not sterilized, it can lead to infection. So, it is always recommended to take the experienced opinion of a vet before using the Q tip.
Also, the Q tip should be discarded after every use. If you are a little hesitant about using the Q tip to get a cat out of the heat, then we will walk you through the best alternatives.
Now, let’s get to know how the Q tip method can help your cat during the heat period.
How the Q Tip Method gets a Cat out of Heat?
Q tip is sought to be the last method that should be used to calm a cat during the heat period. It can seem to be quite an easy way out. However, there are questions related to infection or any other health problem because while you are using a Q tip, the cat won’t remain still. So, you need to hold the cat down and then insert the Q tip.
If you are not a professional, then chances are there that the fibers on the Q tip might get stuck in the private part of the cat. Now, this can lead to severe infection. Also, if the cat develops a dependency on the Q tip, then it can create a nuisance whenever it enters a heat period.
Best Alternatives to Q Tip for a Cat in Heat
Usually, a cat starts to purr loudly and scratch things when she enters the heat period. Using the alternative that can help to calm down the cat and also prevent the hassles that you go through.
Spray the cat
This is one of the best methods that you can use. With a simple surgical procedure, the uterus and ovaries are removed, which stops the reproductive cycle, and your cat does not go into a heat period anymore.
Keep her away from male cats
If you have male cats in your home, then you need to keep the female cat away during the heat period. You can keep them in separate rooms or cat cages. There are even cat fit carriers that you can use to keep the female cats away from their male mates. This would ensure that the cats remain safe during the heat period.
Keep the cat indoors
Usually, during the heat period, the cat tries to sneak out of the house looking for potential mates. So, you need to keep her indoors and supervise her from time to time. You can also try to build a cat-proof room and keep her there during the heat. This would ensure that the cat does not stray away and is safe.
Use Catnip
These are considered to be a cheaper option, and you can find them in various brands and packages. This can help to calm down the cat, as the natural herbal that is used to manufacture a catnip takes the mind of the cat away from mating. It also makes her feel more relaxed.
Heat Pad
You can also try a Heat pad and let the cat sit on it. This also acts as a comfort zone, and you might see that she has stopped scratching things around and even reduced her purring. As a cat parent, you can get one with the tear resistance cord. This ensures that the product doesn’t get damaged when the cat is over-excited and starts biting random objects lying around her.
Try out essential oils
Herbal remedies, such as using lavender, can create a calming effect in your cat during this time. So, you can spray essential oils across the room or on the cat’s bedding. However, do remember to mix water and do not directly use essential oil.
Maintain a clean little box
You might find that during the heat period, the cat is pooping in the room instead of the litter box. So, you need to keep it clean from time to time. This would ensure that the cat poops in the box. Also, this would make her feel relaxed and calm down.
Cat calming diffuser
If you want to reduce the anxiety of the cat, then you can use a cat calming diffuser. It has a long-lasting effect, and you can plug it into any wall socket. The process is quite simple, plug it into the socket, turn it on, and let your cat enjoy the calming effect. This should also prevent the aggressive behavior that the cat might show during this period.
Consult with a vet
It is always necessary to keep in touch with the vet and keep reporting from time to time. They can prescribe medicines that can shorten the reproductive cycle and also calm down the cat if the aggressive behavior gets out of control. Also, you can also protect the cat from infections and avoid planned pregnancy by consulting the vet.
Why is Your Cat in Heat?
When a cat enters a heat period, it indicates that the cat is going through her reproductive cycle, where the cycle lasts for approximately 2 to 3 weeks. This generally occurs twice a year, but some can even experience multiple heat periods. There are also exceptions where the cat enters the heat once every 18 months.
During this time, the body of the female cat goes through a variety of changes. You can notice the change in the vocals, her usual affection towards her human companion, being playful, and might even start urinating frequently. You can also see changes in her private part.
So, during this time, you need to be very careful as she can become quite restless. Cat parents need to understand that the heat period can be challenging, but with appropriate tips you can keep things under control.
