How to Handle a Queen Cat in Heat

1 Why Queens Go Into Heat

A queen comes into heat when her sex-hormone levels cross a threshold. She yowls — often at night, disturbing the neighbours — and a few will jump from windows or run off searching for a mate. To avoid all this, owners with no breeding plan should spay early, once she reaches the right age and is not in heat; the surgery sharply reduces the signs.

2 Spaying

Spaying means surgically removing the ovaries and uterus so the cat no longer cycles. Crucially, avoid doing it during a heat: the organs are then rich with blood and a hasty operation can cause severe haemorrhage, fail, and endanger her life. The procedure itself runs 60–90 minutes, with a long pre-op phase, and the exact time depends on the cat’s condition.

Before surgery, run blood counts and a full biochemistry panel so the vet knows her state and can operate safely. Most clinics use inhalant anaesthesia, which is safer than injection and clears faster, shortening recovery.

3 Aftercare

The incision sits below the navel and runs deep, so after surgery she usually needs IV fluids to control infection. At home, clean dust and discharge from the wound daily and use the vet’s antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing medication as directed.