How often do cats go through an estrus cycle?

Cats typically go through an estrus cycle every 15 to 21 days when they are in the breeding season, which is influenced by environmental factors such as light and temperature, as well as their individual health and genetics.

During estrus, commonly referred to as "heat," female cats exhibit signs of readiness to mate, and this can occur several times throughout the breeding season, especially if they are not bred. The cycle can vary slightly among individual cats, but this time frame is widely accepted in veterinary medicine.

This cyclical behavior allows for mating opportunities during the periods when females are fertile, ensuring reproductive success. Recognizing these signs and cycles is essential for pet owners who might be considering breeding their cats, or for those who want to manage their pets’ reproductive health.