What does a cat feel during its heat? - briefly
During a cat's heat cycle, it experiences a strong desire to mate, which can make it restless and vocal. The hormonal changes also cause discomfort similar to human menstrual cramps.
What does a cat feel during its heat? - in detail
During estrus, or "heat," female cats undergo significant hormonal changes that influence their behavior and sensory experiences. The primary hormone driving this process is progesterone, which stimulates the release of other hormones such as estrogen and luteinizing hormone (LH).
One of the most noticeable changes during heat is an increase in vocalization. Cats may become more vocal, often producing a distinctive call to attract male cats. This vocalization is a direct result of hormonal fluctuations and serves as a form of communication within feline social structures.
Another notable change is an increased restlessness and agitation. Hormones stimulate the cat's nervous system, leading to heightened sensitivity to environmental cues and increased activity levels. Cats in heat may exhibit behaviors such as rolling on the ground, rubbing against objects or people, and assuming a lordosis posture—arching their backs and elevating their hindquarters to signal receptivity to males.
The cat's sense of smell becomes highly acute during heat. Pheromones, chemical signals released by cats, play a crucial role in attracting mates. Female cats release pheromones that can be detected by male cats from considerable distances, guiding them towards the source and triggering their own mating behaviors.
Sensitivity to touch also increases during estrus. Cats may become more affectionate or aggressive depending on individual temperament and previous experiences. Some cats might seek out physical contact with humans or other pets, while others may exhibit aggression if they feel threatened or overwhelmed by the hormonal changes.
Additionally, appetite can be affected. Some cats may experience a decrease in appetite due to the increased energy expenditure from heightened activity levels and the physiological demands of estrus. However, this is not universal, and individual cats may continue eating normally.
Overall, a cat's experiences during heat are multifaceted, encompassing vocal changes, increased restlessness, heightened senses of smell and touch, and possible shifts in appetite. These phenomena are all driven by the complex interplay of hormones that prepare the female cat for potential mating and subsequent reproduction.