Expert: Becky - 1/6/2005

Question
Hi Becky,

We have four kittens, all girls, yes I know four but we couldn't bear to break up the litter.  Well they have all reached 8 months old and it would seem that they have the signs of being in heat.  I read some of the other questions to find that out.  I would like more information on the type of behaviour expected during heat.  Do cats sometimes mess in the wrong place for some reason, do they pass blood during this phase etc?  Any, sorry, all information would be greatly appreciated.  We intend having all spade very soon.

Regards

Gary

Answer
Gary,

I love cats, and four doesn't seem too many to me at all!  I'm surprised they haven't come into heat before now.  Cats display a definite behaviour while in heat, there is no doubt about it.  They will howl, roll around as if on drugs, arch their butt up in the air, and all around act differently.  Cats are very clean so you will not see any blood, however, you need to be extremely cautious about not letting them outdoors at this time.  I prefer to keep my cats indoors all the time,for safety and they live longer not being exposed to diseases that other cats carry.     
You mentioned having them spayed, please do so as soon as you can.  It is very important for us to be responsible pet owners and spay/neuter our pets.   Good luck to you!

God Bless,
Becky