What happens when cats mate? - briefly
When cats mate, the male mounts the female and grips her neck with his teeth as part of the mating process. This act typically lasts for a brief period before the pair separates.
What happens when cats mate? - in detail
Mating in cats is a complex process that involves both physiological and behavioral changes. The entire mating cycle, from initial courtship to post-mating behaviors, can be quite intricate and fascinating.
When a female cat (queen) is in heat, she will exhibit various signs of being ready to mate. These include vocalizing more frequently, becoming more affectionate towards humans and other cats, and displaying lordosis—an arching of the back and raising of the hindquarters. The queen may also spray urine around her territory to mark it and attract male cats.
Male cats (toms) are highly sensitive to the scent of a female in heat. They can detect pheromones from significant distances, which triggers their mating instincts. Once attracted, the tom will approach the queen and initiate courtship behaviors. This includes rubbing against her, nuzzling, and sometimes even biting gently on the neck or shoulders.
The actual mating process can be intense and often involves several attempts before successful copulation occurs. The tom will mount the queen from behind, gripping her firmly with his front paws around her body. This grip is necessary to stabilize both cats during the act of mating. Once mounted, the tom will thrust quickly and powerfully, a process that can last from a few seconds up to several minutes. If successful, the male's penis will swell inside the female, making it difficult for him to withdraw. This "locking" mechanism is known as a copulatory tie and ensures that sperm is effectively transferred into the queen's reproductive tract.
During the tie, which can last up to 30 minutes, both cats may appear uncomfortable or distressed. The queen might try to move away or vocalize loudly. After the tie breaks, the tom usually dismounts and moves away quickly, often leaving the queen alone.
Post-mating behaviors include grooming and cleaning. The queen will often lick her genital area to remove any remaining semen, while the tom may also engage in self-grooming to clean off the female's scent. It is not uncommon for cats to mate multiple times over a few days to ensure successful fertilization.
Once mating is complete, the queen will enter a state of pseudopregnancy if she does not become pregnant. This phase can last up to 45 days and mimics many symptoms of pregnancy, including nesting behaviors and milk production. If pregnancy occurs, the gestation period for cats is typically around 63-65 days.
Throughout this mating cycle, hormonal changes play a significant role in regulating both male and female behaviors. Pheromones, produced by glands located in various parts of the cat's body, are crucial for communication during courtship and mating. Understanding these processes provides valuable insights into feline reproduction and behavior.