How do cats menstruate? - briefly
Cats do not menstruate like humans do. Instead, they experience estrus cycles, during which they become receptive to mating and may exhibit behaviors such as increased vocalization and rubbing against objects.
How do cats menstruate? - in detail
Cats, like humans and other mammals, experience a reproductive cycle that includes estrus (heat) periods rather than a true menstrual cycle as seen in humans. To understand this process, it is essential to delve into the intricacies of the feline reproductive system.
Cats are induced ovulators, meaning they do not release eggs (ovulate) spontaneously like humans. Instead, the act of mating triggers ovulation. The cat's reproductive cycle is divided into several phases: anestrus, proestrus, estrus, and metestrus.
During anestrus, which can last for several months, the cat's reproductive system is in a state of quiescence. No eggs are released or prepared for release during this phase.
Proestrus signals the beginning of the reproductive cycle. During this stage, the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels increase, preparing the ovaries for ovulation. The cat may exhibit behavioral changes such as increased vocalization and restlessness, but there is no external bleeding or discharge.
Estrus, also known as heat, is the phase during which a cat is most fertile and receptive to mating. This period typically lasts for 4-7 days and can be accompanied by behavioral signs such as rolling on the ground, vocalizing frequently, and becoming more affectionate toward humans or other cats. It is important to note that while there may be some vaginal discharge during estrus, it does not resemble human menstruation in terms of volume or nature.
Metestrus, also known as interestrus, follows the estrus phase. If mating has occurred, ovulation is triggered by the presence of sperm. If no mating occurs, the cat's body returns to a state similar to anestrus, and the cycle begins again. During metestrus, hormonal changes occur to support potential pregnancy, but there is no external bleeding or menstruation in the human sense.
In summary, cats do not experience menstrual cycles as humans do. Instead, they undergo a reproductive cycle with phases marked by behavioral and hormonal changes, culminating in estrus (heat), where ovulation is induced by mating. Any vaginal discharge during this period is not comparable to human menstruation.