What is a cat's heat called? - briefly
The cat's heat is commonly referred to as "estrus." This term describes the period during which a female cat is receptive to mating.
What is a cat's heat called? - in detail
The term used to describe a cat's period of sexual receptivity and fertility is "estrus" or "heat." During this phase, which typically occurs in female cats (queens) during their breeding season, they exhibit specific behaviors designed to attract males. These can include increased vocalization, restlessness, rolling on the ground, and raising the hindquarters while treading with the back feet. The purpose of these actions is to signal male cats (toms) that the female is ready for mating.
Estrus in cats is characterized by a series of cycles that can last from several days to weeks. If a queen does not become pregnant during an estrus cycle, she will go through another heat period after a few weeks. It's important to note that cats are induced ovulators, meaning the act of mating triggers the release of eggs from the ovaries. This mechanism ensures that fertilization occurs only when there is a male available for mating.
Understanding a cat's heat cycle is crucial for responsible pet ownership, especially if you do not want your cat to become pregnant. In such cases, spaying or neutering your cat can prevent unwanted litters and reduce the behaviors associated with estrus. Additionally, it has health benefits such as reducing the risk of reproductive diseases and certain types of cancer.
In summary, the term "heat" refers to the period when a female cat is sexually receptive and ready for mating. This phase is characterized by specific behaviors aimed at attracting male cats and ensuring reproduction.