Reproduction and fertility in cats
Small cats are pubescent from the age of six months. This is when the first heat occurs, which can occur throughout the year. It lasts between 10 and 15 days, but its duration and frequency depend on the breed of animal, climate and sun exposure. For example, Persian cats only have two periods of sexual activity: late summer and late winter. Siamese cats can have a period of activity every two weeks, while European cats come into heat every two months. The most fertile time for cats is between 2 and 5 years of age, but reproduction is possible up to 8 or 10 years of age. The gestation period starts after mating. This takes about 9 weeks. The main signs are a complete cessation of heat, a change in character and, of course, weight gain and abdominal swelling. The female will also be hungrier and thirstier and it is necessary to accompany her and meet her needs with a consistent diet. It is also important to have the pregnancy monitored by the treating veterinarian to avoid the risk of mortality for both the kittens as the mother cat.
Control of the fertility of the cat
It is important to realize that females can have litters every year. Feline contraception helps prevent kitten abandonment and overpopulation in shelters and kennels. If you want to control the cat’s fertility, you can spay or neuter the animal. Females are usually spayed as early as 6 months of age, which prevents unwanted litters, medical issues such as breast problems, and undesirable behavior during heat.
Products to support this period
If your pet has an irregular hormone cycle and hormonal changes, you can offer Phytonics HormONE or Puur Hormone Balance. These supplements are particularly recommended for regulating the endocrine system of animals and promoting fertility in cats and milk production in female animals. Puur has developed several nutritional supplements for the different phases of the cat’s reproductive cycle and fertility. Puur Pseudo Pregnancy is suitable for cats with a nervous pregnancy. It is a supplement that reduces mood swings and behavioural problems that can occur. Puur Oestro is another supplement that aids in the regulation of sex hormones in women and promotes regular menstrual cycles and can be given to women who are difficult to conceive or suffer from libido issues. With libido issues, some animals may become overly sexually aroused and even show signs of aggression. Groene Os Provarium Breeding is effective for both males and females to regulate their hormonal cycles and libido. After delivery, it is important to clean the uterus. Puur Utero is a supplement that normalizes reproductive function and keeps the uterus clean. It is also suitable for use in difficult births.
