Do female cats have a menstrual period (heat)?

Female cats do have a period — the heat (estrus) phase. But they don’t bleed from the vulva during it; instead they become more accepting of petting, vocalize with low calls, and accept mating with males.

Cats in heat tend to run away from home, so keep doors and windows closed. If you have no breeding plans, spay the cat at the right time; spaying can somewhat extend a cat’s lifespan.