How does a male cat mate with a female cat? - briefly
Male cats initiate mating by biting the female's neck and mounting her, while the female assumes a receptive posture to allow copulation.
How does a male cat mate with a female cat? - in detail
The mating process between male and female cats, known as tomcats and queens respectively, is a biologically driven behavior that ensures reproduction. When a female cat enters estrus, or heat, she emits pheromones and vocalizations to signal her readiness to mate. Male cats detect these signals through their highly sensitive sense of smell and hearing. Upon finding a receptive female, the male initiates courtship by approaching her cautiously, as females can be aggressive if not fully ready. The male may vocalize, nuzzle, or circle the female to gauge her willingness. If the female is receptive, she assumes a mating posture called lordosis, lowering her front body and raising her hindquarters with her tail to the side. The male then mounts her from behind, gripping her neck with his teeth to stabilize himself. This action triggers ovulation in the female due to the barbed structure of the male's penis, which stimulates the release of eggs. The actual mating is brief, often lasting only a few seconds, after which the female may vocalize or swat at the male due to the discomfort caused by the barbs. The male then dismounts, and the female may roll on the ground or groom herself. This process may repeat multiple times over several hours or days until the female is no longer receptive. Successful mating results in fertilization, and the female's pregnancy typically lasts around 63 to 65 days. The entire process is instinctual and driven by hormonal changes in both the male and female cats.