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Cats/Spontaneous Heat in a Spayed Cat

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Expert: - 12/8/2007


Question
I recently adopted a cat from the humane society in my town.  She was five
months old when I got her, and already spayed.  Everything was fine for about
two months, but now she seems to be in heat.  I understand that the spaying
procedure could have been incomplete, but how does that explain her not
going into heat over the past two months?  She isn't very vocal, but is making
strange cooing noises and squatting with her hindquarters in the air and
waddling that way.  Could there be any other explanation for this other than a
botched procedure?  Why would she go for two whole months without going
into heat at a mature enough age to do so, and then spontaneously act this
way?  Thank you for your input!

Answer
Hi Miranda,

On rare occasions there could be some residual ovarian tissue left in a spayed cat. This would account for this behavior. A vet needs to go back into her and remove the ovarian tissue left over. This procedure should be done when your cat is exhibiting the heat signs. You need to take her back and have a vet confirm this. Good luck.

Ciao, Karen

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Karen Craft

Expertise

I can give advice on cat behavior. I can help about newborn kitten care. I can help with senior cat care. I can answer questions about cat proofing a home or making it cat friendly. I can answer diet questions. I can answer home treatments questions for cats. At present I have 13 cats in home and two ferals outside. And there's always room for one more!

Experience

I have over 40 year's experience with cats. Father was a veterinarian and I assisted him in his work. I have 15 cats at present. Most are shelter or feral rescues. I have one purebred cat. I have done cat rescues and foster care. Some thoughts to carry with you. A Cat's 10 Commandments My life is likely to last 15-20 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful. Give me time to understand what you want of me. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainments. But I have only you. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it. Before you swat me, before you strike me, remember that I have teeth that could draw blood. And claws to strike back. And yet I choose not to attack you. If I don't act right then have me checked to see what is wrong. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too will grow old. On the difficult journey, on the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there. Because I love you so. Take a moment today to thank God for your pets. Enjoy and take good care of them. Life would be a much duller, less joyful thing without God's critters. Pass this on.

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I have an A.A.S.

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