How Often Do Cats Go on Heat? A Breeder's Guide to the Feline Reproductive Cycle

By: Responsible Group Australia Updated 18 August, 2026

If you’re involved in breeding cats, or if you’re starting to establish your own cattery, it’s important to know about how often cats go on heat. This information will impact many aspects of breeding, and every breeder should have a thorough understanding of this topic.

In this article, we’ll discuss the feline estrus cycle, the factors that impact how often a breeding cat enters into heat, and the signs that indicate that a breeder should seek expert advice on the breeding process.

So, How Often Do Cats Go on Heat?

Unlike dogs, cats are seasonally polyoestrous. This means that they will cycle throughout the breeding season. An unmated female cat will come into heat every 2 to 3 weeks during the breeding season.

Each heat cycle last between 4 and 10 days. If a female cat does not mate during her cycle, she will naturally cycle out of heat and back into heat within a couple of weeks. This process can continue repeating itself for several months.

What Triggers a Cat's Heat Cycle?

Several factors influence how often — and how intensely — a queen goes on heat:

Daylight hours (photoperiod): Cats are very light sensitive. The increased light of spring and summer will naturally encourage more frequent cycling, while the shorter days of winter will discourage cycling – though cats kept indoors all winter and year round may experience cycling throughout the year.
Age and sexual maturity: Queen cats can reach sexual maturity as early as 4 months of age, though most will begin to cycle between 5 and 9 months of age. Breeds like Siamese will reach sexual maturity at an earlier age than the larger breeds like Maine Coons.
Breed: Some breeds are known to be particularly loud or vocal during heat cycles.
Body condition: A queen needs to have the right body weight and health condition to be able to cycle regularly and support a future pregnancy.
Presence of other cats: Being around other cycling females can sometimes synchronise their heat cycles, while the presence of an un-neutered male may also trigger cycling.

Signs a Cat Is on Heat

Recognising the signs of oestrus is essential for timing matings correctly and avoiding accidental litters. Common signs include:

Increased vocalisation or yowling
Rolling, rubbing, and unusually affectionate behaviour
Raising the hindquarters and treading with the back legs when petted
Increased desire to escape outdoors
Frequent urination or spraying

Because cats are induced ovulators, ovulation is typically triggered by mating itself rather than occurring spontaneously — which is part of why unspayed queens can cycle so frequently if they aren’t bred.

Why This Matters for Breeders

For anyone involved in breeding programs for these queen bees, understanding the frequency with which they cycle into oestrus can have an impact upon their breeding calendar, care for the queens, and the planning of their litters. Breeding queens back to back with no rest period in between their litters has the potential to negatively impact the health of those queens, hence the suggested limits to the number of litters each queen can produce each year, and the need for those queens to rest in between laying their offspring.

Get Expert Support as a Responsible Pet Breeders Australia Member

Navigating your queen’s reproductive cycle is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to ethical, sustainable cat breeding. At Responsible Pet Breeders Australia (RPBA), we exist to help breeders like you do it right — from your very first litter to running an established, reputable cattery.

As an RPBA member, you’ll gain access to:

Breed-specific guidance on oestrus cycles, mating timing, pregnancy, and whelping/queening care
A trusted community of experienced, ethical breeders and mentors to answer your questions
Credibility and recognition as a responsible breeder, helping you attract serious, informed buyers
Educational resources covering genetics, health testing, and best-practice breeding standards
Support navigating registration, compliance, and animal welfare requirements in your state

Breeding healthy, well-adjusted cats starts with knowledge — and you don’t have to figure it all out alone.

Join Responsible Pet Breeders Australia today and get the tools, community, and credibility you need to breed with confidence.

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Whelping Kit

Whelping Supplies You Need for a Safe, Stress-Free Birth

Getting ready to welcome a new litter? A whelping kit gives you the peace of mind that you’re ready for anything. Whether you’re a seasoned breeder or welcoming your first litter, you need to be prepared.

Cavoodle Toys

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Pet Treat Dispenser Toy A$29.99 - A$66.99
Pet Treat Dispenser Toy - Play while you eat! Give your pets a new way to enjoy their meals with the Pet Treat Dispenser Toy. This perfect boredom buster is ideal for feeding times or to encourage your pets to utilise their natural hunting instincts whilst also encouraging healthier eating habits. This perfect toy will keep your dogs and cats entertained of all ages! Why Pet Owners Love It: • Interactive and Rewarding Play - The pet treat dispenser toy encourages play and keeps their minds sharp. Only a small treat will encourage your pet to roll, nudge, or paw at the toy all day! • Discourages Choking and Indigestion - Many pets are prone to quickly finishing their meals at once. This toy will encourage them to play with the toy rather than finish their meal. • Durable and Non-Toxic - This toy is sturdy enough for dogs to play with daily; however, it is light enough for cats or senior dogs to play with by themselves. Made from non-toxic plastic. • Reduced Anxiety and Destructive Behaviour - Keep your pets calm and happy in your house rather than destroying toys due to boredom whilst you are away. • Great For All Breeds and Sizes - Whether your pet is a dog or a cat, active or lazy, young or senior, all breeds will enjoy playing with this toy and be able to manipulate it at any pace. Product Specifications: • Type: Pet Treat Dispenser Toy • Material: Durable non-toxic plastic • Function: Stimulate or release boredom • Age + Gender: Dogs and cats of any size • Where to Use: Indoor or outdoor • Care + Cleaning: Simply rinse and refill the toy with their favourite food! Why You'll Love It This product encourages play and problem-solving skills for your pets, aids in the digestion process, is strong, safe, and made from non-toxic materials, and will keep your pets preoccupied and mentally stimulated. An essential toy for training your pets for rewards at any time of the day. Make playtime mealtime! Click the button and get your pet treat dispenser toy today!
Rubber Dog Frisbee A$46.99
Rubber Dog Frisbee - High-Flying Fun for Energetic Pups Give your dog the High-Flying Rubber Dog Frisbee they deserve! Specifically made for dogs who love to run, jump and chase after toys, this rubber disc provides hours of fun for dogs while being gentle on their teeth! Perfect for parks, the garden or the beach - this dog frisbee is perfect for pups and their owners who want to keep their dogs active and entertained. Why Pet Owners Love This Dog Frisbee: • Durable, Chew-Resistant TPR Material - Made from high-quality TPR (Thermoplastic Rubber) material, this rubber disc will endure the enthusiastic catching and moderate chewing of your dog much better than standard plastic discs. Strong, flexible and safe - perfect for dogs who love to chase after frisbees! • Soft on Teeth & Gums - Unlike other plastic dog frisbees that can cause injuries to the dogs’ teeth and gums, the soft texture of this dog toy will be gentle on their mouths. • Lightweight with a Smooth Flight - At only 70g, this dog frisbee is easy to throw, easy to catch and will glide smoothly through the air for your dog to enjoy during playtime at long distances. • Ideal for Exercise and Training - Fetching with a dog's frisbee increases a dog’s agility, muscle strength, coordination and mental stimulation. It is an excellent way to keep your dog healthy and calm. It also helps to strengthen the bond between dog and owner. • Vibrant Colours - Available in bright pink, red, yellow and blue colours, these dog toys will be easy to spot while playing with your dog on the beach or in the park. Specifications: • Weight: 70g • Colours Available: Pink, Red, Yellow, Blue Make playtime exciting, safe and unforgettable. Add the rubber dog frisbee to your basket today and give your dog a fun and durable toy that they will sprint after again and again.
Automatic Slow Feeder Disc for Dogs A$25.99 - A$26.99
Disc Automatic Slow Feeder for Dogs A Feed That You Can Also Play With! Give your dog a meal that is not only healthy and safe but also one that is fun! The Disc Automatic Slow Feeder for Dogs is a clever 2-in-1 toy and feeder that will discourage your dog from eating too fast while also allowing your pup to play and stay active at the same time! All dog breeds and ages are loved by this automatic slow feeder and will provide your dog with better digestion, dental health, and playtime! Why Dog Owners Love It: • Interactive Feeding Process: If your dog eats too fast, the Disc Automatic Slow Feeder for Dogs will keep them entertained while they play with the slow feeder toy to eat their meals. • Improved Digestion & Healthy Living: Eating fast can lead to bloating, indigestion and even choking. This slow feeder will allow your dog to eat at a more mindful rate without the hassle of inducing slow eating. Perfect for those who want to avoid the trips to the doctor’s office! • Better Dental Health: The textured rubber design will work as a dental companion for your dog. These slow feeders will clean your dog’s teeth naturally as they play with the slow feeder. A great way to keep your dog’s dental health up without any additional effort on your part! • Durable and Safe Materials: The Disc Automatic Slow Feeder for Dogs is made of high-quality, non-toxic rubber. This material is extremely durable and can take the teeth of the toughest of chewers! Your dog’s mouth will be safe and comfortable while using this slow feeder! • Bright Colours: Choose from blue, pink, yellow and green for a colourful dog slow feeder that expresses your dog’s personality! • Portable & Travel-Friendly: At 11 x 4.5 cm in size, this dog slow feeder toy can follow you to wherever you go. Whether you are taking your dog for a walk, playing outdoors or travelling, your pets will be content and accompanied by this toy! Product Information: • Size: 11 x 4.5 cm • Available colours: blue, pink, yellow and green • Function: It features interactive functionality with its feeders and offers a dental benefit to your dog! Why You Need It It reduces the speed at which your dog eats and allows for better digestion. Promotes better dental health for your dog naturally. Encourages mental stimulation in your dog. Made from durable rubber that can take the test of your pets’ chewing strength. Travel-friendly for when you are on the go! Get your Disc Automatic Slow Feeder for Dogs today! Add to cart now and ensure your dog has an enjoyable game to play every time you feed them - whether it’s during the day or night!
Dog Chew Toy, Retractable Pole A$76.99
Retractable Pole Dog Chew Toy Give your dog a fun way to chase, tug, and burn energy. The retractable dog chew toy features a telescopic rod, rope, and chewable toy head - perfect for play at home, in the garden or in the park. Ideal for dogs that need extra exercise. A Better Way to Keep Active Dogs Busy Some dogs need more than a walk. Without enough playtime, dogs can become bored and begin to chew on the things they should not. The retractable dog toy is the perfect way to get your dog more active. Encourage your dog to swing, move and play with the toy to encourage chasing, tugging and jumping activity. Why Pet Owners Love It • Chews, tugs and encourages active play • A telescopic design allows for more movement. • Helps keep dogs mentally and physically active • Anti-slip sponge handle for more secure grip • Features rope and toy head for dogs to chew on • Lightweight aluminium alloy design for easier handling • Retractable design for easy storage • Great for outdoor play in the garden or park Made for Interactive Play This retractable toy is designed for play between you and your dog. Perfect for encouraging your dog to play and burn energy. Portable and Easy to Store The three-section retractable design allows for easy storage - store it in your car or away from your dog when not in play. The lightweight aluminium alloy design with the anti-slip handle allows for easier play with your dog during play sessions of your choosing. Product Details • Extended rod length: 102cm • Closed rod length: 42cm • Rope length: 110cm • Colour: Black • Material: Aluminium alloy, sponge anti-slip handle, nylon rope, cotton rope and replacement toy head • Design: Three-section telescopic retractable pole • Suitable for: Dogs • Use: Tugging, chasing, training, outdoor play and exercise Keep Playtime Fun and Active Give your dog a fun toy to help them burn off energy in a healthy way. Order your pack of retractable pole dog chew toys today and make playtime with your dog more exciting!
Doggy Birthday Outfit Set A$48.99
Doggy Birthday Outfit Set Give your dog a fun outfit for their birthday! This outfit is perfect for taking pictures, having a party, and celebrating their birthday with them. This outfit is perfect for small to medium dogs celebrating their birthdays, adoption anniversaries, or having a puppy party with the family. A Cute Birthday Look Without the Fuss Small dogs will look great in this outfit but will also feel comfortable in it. The outfit is designed to give your dog a perfect party look without adding too much clothing. The lightweight material is comfortable for your dog to wear while celebrating their birthday with them. Why Pet Owners Love It • A birthday-themed outfit makes parties and photos more fun. • Choose from a bandana, dog hat, bow tie, or full set. • Blue and pink options suit different party themes. • Lightweight fabric ensures dogs remain comfortable in the outfit. • Adjust the outfit to ensure your dog remains comfortably fitted. • Suitable for most small to medium dog breeds • Easy to clean after parties • Great for birthdays, adoption days, gifts, and photo shoots Made for Party Photos and Special Moments Whatever type of party you are throwing for your canine companion, this outfit will add the perfect finishing touch to their special occasion. Buy individual pieces or get the full set for a birthday outfit that will stand out in photos for your pup. Comfortable for Small to Medium Dogs The birthday outfit for dogs features soft and lightweight material for maximum comfort for your pup while wearing it. The adjustable fit ensures that the outfit will stay in place throughout the birthday celebration. Product Details • Colour: Blue • Suitable for: Small to medium dogs • Fit: Adjustable • Use: Birthdays, parties, adoption days, gifts, and photo shoots • Care: Easy to clean Make Your Dog’s Birthday Extra Special Get your pup dressed up in this party-ready outfit for their birthdays and photos. Order the Doggy Birthday Outfit Set today to celebrate your dog’s birthday in style!
Girl Dog Birthday Set A$31.99
Girl Dog Birthday Set Dress your dog in a cute birthday outfit perfect for parties and taking pictures. This girl dog birthday outfit comes in a set with a skirt, a hat, and a bandana. Perfect for her birthday or any occasion, this outfit will make your dog stand out from the crowd. A Sweet Birthday Outfit for Your Dog Dress your dog in a cute outfit for her birthday. However, comfort is also important for your pup. This outfit allows your dog to move and play about while celebrating her birthday for her special day. Why Pet Owners Love It • The complete birthday outfit includes a skirt, hat and bandana.• A sparkly skirt adds a fun party-princess look for your dog.• A matching hat and bandana are included.• A lightweight pet accessory adds comfort when wearing the skirt.• It's easy to dress your dog in this birthday outfit.• Adjustable to provide a better fit for your pup• Perfect for dogs’ birthdays, posing for photos, parties or gifts• Add a touch of cuteness to birthday photos. Made for Photos, Parties, and Special Days Whether having a birthday party at home or taking a few photos to commemorate the occasion, this dog costume accessory will add a special touch to your dog’s look. Coordinated to create a complete look for your dog, each of these outfits will have her as the centre of attention from the first treat to the last photo. Comfortable Enough for Celebrations The soft cloth and polyester fabric of these birthday outfits mean they’ll be light and comfortable for your dog. Additionally, the adjustable components ensure that the outfit stays in place while she runs, plays, or poses. Product Details • The set includes: 1 hat, 1 skirt, and 1 bandana. • Material: Cloth and polyester • Quantity: 1 set • Suitable for: Dogs • Fit: Adjustable components • Use: For birthdays, parties, dog adoption days, or as gifts for dogs. Make Her Birthday Feel Extra Special Give your dog a cute outfit for her birthday that she can wear for comfort and for great pictures. Order the Girl Dog Birthday Set today to make her birthday just a little bit extra special.
Rubber Bone Chew Toy, Teeth Cleaning A$42.99
Teeth Cleaning Rubber Bone Chew Toy Give your dog a chew toy that will keep them busy and aid in their dental care. Made to support chewing, gum massage, and relief from boredom, this chew toy is perfect for dogs to play with daily. Ideal for puppies and dogs that love to chew. A Chew Toy That Supports Dental Care Dogs will inevitably chew on the wrong objects when left without the perfect chew toy. This teeth-cleaning rubber bone will provide your dog with an alternative chew toy that also massages their gums and aids in cleaning their teeth as they play with it. Why Pet Owners Love It • A textured rubber surface helps support teeth cleaning.• Raised spikes help massage gums during chewing.• Durable TPR material is made for regular play.• Bone shape is easy for dogs to grip and chew.• Helps to redirect dog’s chewing away from furniture and shoes• Helps to kill boredom and provide stress-free playtime for dogs• Suitable for puppies and dogs of different sizes• Compact size for ease of use indoors or outdoors Made for Chewing, Play, and Enrichment Chewing toys help keep dogs occupied when they are either bored or have a surplus of energy. The rubber bone chew toy will provide dogs with the perfect texture to chew on and play with to keep them entertained. A Handy Everyday Toy for Dogs This chew toy is perfect to be used during quiet time or playtime with supervision. The compact size of this chew toy allows it to be taken anywhere and played with your dog for short periods of time. Product Details • Size: 13 x 5 cm• Colour: Random colour• Shape: Rubber bone• Suitable for: Puppies and dogs• Use: Chewing, gum massage, teeth cleaning, boredom relief and play• Note: Always supervise your pet while they are playing with this toy. Replace the toy if it becomes damaged during play with your pet. Support Better Chewing Habits for Your Dog Give your dog a chew toy that will help them stay busy during playtime with you or other dogs. Order the Teeth Cleaning Rubber Bone Chew Toy today to support better chewing habits at home.
Monster Dog Toy, Enduro Chewers A$27.99
Enduro Chewers Monster Dog Toy - Chew, Clean, and Play in One Give your dog a toy that does more than squeak. The Enduro Chewers Monster Dog Toy offers more than just fun for your pup - it also promotes dental health. The Enduro Chewers Monster Dog Toy combines a quirky monster shape with dental care benefits for dogs of all sizes who love to chew. The toy features horizontal and vertical grooves to allow dogs to clean their teeth while playing. It’s built from natural rubber that won’t break easily with chewing. It has no bitter aftertaste and no harsh rubber smell. The toy also features a built-in squeaker to keep the dog entertained. Pet owners love this toy because: • A Fun, Eye-Catching Monster Shape: The unique monster design features horizontal and vertical grooves that allow pet owners to load treats and toothpaste for their dog to enjoy while cleaning their teeth. • Built to Last with Tough Natural Rubber: The toy is made from strong, natural rubber that can take the chewing of even the heaviest chewers. It has no bitter aftertaste and no harsh rubber smell. • Squeaker Inside for Play That Never Gets Old: The built-in squeaker will keep your dog entertained as they play with this toy. • Effortless Daily Dental Care: Simply load your dog’s favourite treats or toothpaste into the grooves. Each play session will naturally clean your dog’s teeth and provide fresh breath. • Helps Ease Stress and Reduce Anxiety: The design of the toy and its built-in squeaker work together to keep your dog calm and focused during playtime. • Supports Healthy Chewing Habits: This toy allows dogs to naturally release the built-up energy in their bodies while eliminating any destructive behaviour. Perfect for dogs who need a durable, interactive toy to play with daily. Choose the Enduro Chewers Monster Dog Toy for your dog if they are: • Dogs of all sizes • Heavy chewers • Dogs needing dental care • Pups who suffer from boredom or anxiety • Owners seeking an entertaining, all-in-one dog toy Benefits of the Enduro Chewers Monster Dog Toy: • Monster design encourages dental health • Grooves allow treats, toothpaste, or spreads to be loaded into the toy. • Built from natural rubber that can last a lifetime with chewing • Built-in squeaker to keep dogs entertained • Teeth get naturally cleaned while dogs play with the toy. • Reducing stress and destructive behaviour • Safe to use daily Give your dog a toy that works as hard as they play. Add the Enduro Chewers Monster Dog Toy to the shopping cart today to provide your dog with a beneficial chew toy that keeps their teeth clean and healthy.
Dog Puzzle IQ Game Feeder A$26.99
Dog Puzzle IQ Game Feeder Turn mealtimes into a fun brain game for your dog. This Dog Puzzle IQ Game Feeder is the perfect way to encourage your dog to solve problems while you ensure that feeding happens at a more leisurely pace. Ideal for dogs that are always up to something or eat too quickly for their own good. A Smarter Way to Feed Your Dog If your dog finishes their food too quickly, they may become bored and search for other things to keep them occupied. The Dog Puzzle Feeder will allow their food to last longer while simultaneously giving them an engaging activity to occupy their time when they are not eating. Why Pet Owners Love It • Interactive puzzle design challenges your dog’s problem-solving skills.• Helps slow down fast eating• Encourages focus, sniffing and pawing at the toy• Very useful for reducing boredom• Helps extend mealtimes• Great durable plastic construction• Available in three fun colours - blue, pink and green• Great for indoor toys and rewarding training successes Made for Mental Stimulation Just as dogs need exercise to keep them physically fit, they also need mental exercise. This toy is designed to give your dog a simple challenge to keep their mind active. A smart dog feeder is good to have when it rains, when you need quiet time with your pup, or if your dog tends to need more structure during the day. Supports Better Feeding Habits This dog feeder can help with gulping at meals and provides something positive for anxious or energetic dogs. Product Details • Colours: Blue, pink, and green • Suitable for: Dogs • Use: Slow feeding, treat rewards, puzzle play, boredom relief, and enrichment • Function: Interactive feeding and problem-solving • Package includes: 1 x Dog Puzzle IQ Game Feeder • Note: Pet food is not included. Make Mealtimes More Engaging Give your dog a fun way to eat and stay busy during mealtimes. Order the Dog Puzzle IQ Game Feeder today to make feeding time more rewarding for your dog.
Dog IQ Puzzle Toy Feeder A$30.99
A shallow puzzle disc that makes a dog work out where the food is instead of inhaling it. Mealtime goes from thirty seconds to several minutes, and the dog has to use its nose and paws to get there.Who needs oneThe dog that finishes its bowl before you have put the scoop away. Fast eating brings gulped air, and gulped air brings the burping, hiccupping and occasional bring-it-back-up that follows. Slowing the meal down fixes most of it.It also suits the dog that has nothing to do between walks. Ten minutes of sniffing and problem solving tires a dog more than ten minutes of pacing.Puppies and breedersWorth introducing before a puppy leaves. A litter fed from a shared tray learns to eat fast and defend the bowl. A puzzle feeder breaks that habit early and travels with the puppy to its new home as something familiar.How to introduce itStart it easy. For the first few meals, leave the food sitting in the open channels so the dog wins immediately. Once it is confident, tuck the food further in. A puzzle a dog cannot solve is a puzzle a dog walks away from.Specifications Approx. 23cm diameter x 3cm high Pet-safe moulded plastic, no coating to flake Suits cats, puppies and small to medium dogs Four designs: circular in pink, green or blue, and pawprint in blue Food not included CleaningWarm soapy water and a brush into the channels. Wet food dries hard in the corners, so rinse it straight after the meal rather than at the end of the day.A note on sizeThis is a small-dog and cat feeder. A labrador will push it around the kitchen and empty it in a minute. For big dogs, use a full-size slow feeder bowl instead.
Pet's Birthday Bandana A$45.99
Pet's Birthday Bandana Add a cute birthday bandana design to your dog’s outfit for their special day! This dog birthday bandana can be purchased on its own or with a birthday hat and bow tie for a complete birthday party look for your pup! Ideal for dogs of all sizes celebrating their birthdays or important days with their owners and families. A Fun Birthday Look for Your Dog When your dog has a birthday party, you want them to feel comfortable and a part of the celebration. Made from soft cotton and polyester, this birthday bandana will be light and comfortable for your pup to wear to their party. Why Pet Owners Love It • Adds instant party style to any birthday• Add an optional hat and bow tie for an even more complete look for your pup.• Perfect for having birthdays, adopting days, taking photos, and more• Comfortable cotton-polyester blend• Adjusts to dogs of any size• Available as individual items or as a set• Available in designs for male or female dogs• Machine washable for easy post-party clean-up Made for Photos, Parties, and Special Moments Whether having a birthday party for your pup or simply taking a few photos, this bandana will ensure that your pet stands out from the rest of the pups in the park or at home. Bandana alone or with a hat and bow tie? Comfortable and Easy to Clean Our bandana is soft to reduce itchiness for your dog. They can pose and enjoy the party in comfort. Simply wash the outfit after the party to prepare for the next event. Product Details • Material: Cotton and polyester • Type: Dog bandana • Fit: Adjustable bandana and secure hat fit • Care: Machine washable in cold water • Use: Birthdays, adoption days, parties, photos, and festive occasions. Make Your Dog’s Birthday More Memorable Add this dog birthday accessory to your pet’s outfit for an adorable look when posing for photos or celebrating their birthday in style. Order your pet’s birthday bandana today to prepare for an unforgettable dog birthday celebration in comfort.