How many days are there in a cat's cycle? - briefly
A cat's estrous cycle typically lasts about 14 to 21 days, with the fertile period occurring every 2 to 3 weeks during the breeding season.
How many days are there in a cat's cycle? - in detail
The feline reproductive cycle, known as the estrous cycle, varies depending on factors such as breed, age, and environmental conditions. Typically, a cat’s cycle lasts approximately 14 to 21 days, though this can differ among individuals. Female cats, or queens, are seasonally polyestrous, meaning they experience multiple cycles during the breeding season, which generally occurs from early spring to late autumn. Each cycle consists of four distinct phases: proestrus, estrus, metestrus, and anestrus. Proestrus is a short phase lasting one to two days, during which the queen may show subtle behavioral changes but is not yet receptive to mating. Estrus, commonly referred to as being "in heat," is the phase when the cat is fertile and actively seeks a mate. This phase typically lasts four to seven days but can extend up to 14 days if mating does not occur. During estrus, queens exhibit noticeable behaviors such as increased vocalization, restlessness, and affectionate or attention-seeking actions. Metestrus, also known as diestrus, follows estrus and lasts about seven to ten days if the queen does not conceive. If pregnancy occurs, this phase extends throughout the gestation period, which is approximately 63 to 65 days. Finally, anestrus is a period of reproductive inactivity, usually occurring during the winter months when daylight hours are shorter. Understanding the duration and phases of a cat’s cycle is essential for managing breeding, preventing unwanted pregnancies, and ensuring the overall health and well-being of the animal.