How long does a cat need a male cat? - briefly
A female cat typically requires a male cat only during her estrus cycle for mating, which lasts about 4-7 days and occurs multiple times a year. Outside of this period, she does not need a male cat for companionship or survival.
How long does a cat need a male cat? - in detail
The duration a female cat requires a male cat is primarily determined by her reproductive cycle and breeding needs. Female cats, or queens, experience estrus, commonly referred to as being "in heat," which is the period when they are fertile and receptive to mating. This cycle typically occurs every two to three weeks during the breeding season, which can last from early spring to late autumn. During estrus, which lasts about 4 to 7 days, a queen will actively seek out a male cat, or tom, for mating. Successful mating often requires multiple encounters over a short period, as ovulation in cats is induced by the act of mating itself. Once fertilization occurs, the queen no longer needs the male for reproductive purposes. If breeding is not the goal, spaying the female cat eliminates the need for a male entirely, preventing estrus and associated behaviors. In summary, the presence of a male cat is only necessary during the queen's estrus period for breeding purposes, and the duration of this need is limited to the fertile window of her cycle.