How long can cats mate with a male cat? - briefly
Cats can mate for a brief period, typically lasting only a few seconds to a couple of minutes per encounter. Male cats may mate multiple times over several hours during the female's estrus cycle.
How long can cats mate with a male cat? - in detail
Cats, particularly female cats (queens), are induced ovulators, meaning ovulation is triggered by mating rather than occurring on a set cycle. When a female cat is in estrus, commonly referred to as being "in heat," she becomes receptive to mating. This period typically lasts between 4 to 7 days, but it can extend up to 10 days if mating does not occur. During this time, a queen may mate with multiple male cats (toms), and a single mating session can last anywhere from a few seconds to a few minutes. However, mating often occurs multiple times over several hours or days to ensure successful ovulation. Male cats are generally ready to mate whenever a receptive female is present, as they do not have a specific mating season and can remain sexually active year-round. The frequency and duration of mating largely depend on the female's receptivity and the presence of competing males. After successful mating, ovulation usually occurs within 24 to 48 hours, and the female will no longer be receptive to further mating attempts. If fertilization occurs, pregnancy lasts approximately 63 to 65 days. If mating does not result in pregnancy, the female may return to estrus within a few weeks, continuing the cycle until conception is achieved.