One of the most noticeable symptoms of a British Shorthair cat in heat is a change in posture and movement. They will often squat on their hind legs and make a scraping motion on the ground. This behavior is instinctive. Cats in heat are preparing for mating. The scraping motion on the ground is a way for them to leave their scent and attract potential mates. According to animal behavior experts, this posture and movement can also be seen as a sign of their readiness to mate. For example, when a female British Shorthair cat is in heat, she may repeatedly squat on her hind legs and scrape the ground with her claws near the entrance of her litter box.
During the mating season, British Shorthair cats may become more affectionate towards their owners. They may cling to their owners more often, follow them around the house, and constantly rub against their legs. This is because cats in heat have a stronger desire for companionship and protection. They feel more vulnerable during this time and seek comfort and security from their owners. At the same time, they may also cry out frequently. These cries are usually high-pitched and prolonged, and can be quite loud. It is a way for them to express their discomfort and attract the attention of potential mates. In addition, they may also try to go outside. This is because the outdoor environment offers more opportunities for them to find mates. However, allowing cats to go outside during the mating season can be dangerous, as they may face various risks such as traffic accidents or fights with other cats. For instance, a British Shorthair cat that was previously very docile may suddenly become very restless and try to scratch at the door to get outside once it goes into heat.
When you touch a British Shorthair cat in heat on its lower back, its tail will sway to the other side. This reaction is a physiological response to being in heat. The nerves and muscles in the cat’s lower back area are more sensitive during this time. When touched, it triggers this tail-swaying response. This response can also be seen as a signal to potential mates that it is ready to mate. According to research, this kind of response is related to the hormonal changes in the cat’s body during the mating season. For example, when a male British Shorthair cat approaches a female in heat and touches her lower back, she will exhibit this tail-swaying behavior to indicate that she is willing to mate.
The symptoms of a British Shorthair cat in heat may not be very obvious at first. As the cat reaches sexual maturity, the symptoms will gradually stabilize and become more regular. The first heat cycle usually lasts about 3 – 5 days. However, within a short period after the first heat, there may be a second heat cycle. This is because the cat’s reproductive system is still developing and adjusting. As the cat matures, the heat cycle will become more regular. Generally, female cats will go into heat several times a year. Each heat cycle will last for a certain period of time. During this time, the cat’s body will undergo a series of physiological changes to prepare for potential mating and pregnancy. For example, a young British Shorthair cat may have a relatively short and mild first heat cycle. But as it grows older, the symptoms of subsequent heat cycles will become more obvious and last longer.
