Here's a breakdown:
* Unaltered female cats: They can go into heat every 2-3 weeks during the breeding season, which typically lasts from spring to fall.
* Factors affecting frequency: The length of the breeding season and the frequency of heat cycles can vary based on factors like:
* Breed: Some breeds, like Siamese cats, tend to go into heat more often.
* Age: Cats typically enter heat for the first time between 4-7 months old.
* Daylight hours: The amount of daylight can trigger hormonal changes and influence heat cycles.
* Spaying: Spaying eliminates heat cycles permanently and prevents unwanted pregnancy.
It's important to remember that repeated heat cycles can be stressful for a cat. Spaying not only prevents unwanted pregnancy but also reduces the risk of certain health problems like uterine infections and mammary cancer.