A female cat can go into her first heat as early as six months of age, but you can avoid this scenario by having your veterinarian spay your cat as early as possible. Not only is spaying your cat better for her health, but it can save you the trouble of caring for an unexpected litter of kittens. Even if your female cat is an indoor cat, she may get out one day and come back with a surprise pregnancy. If your cat has not been spayed, engages in excessive howling and whining, tries to get outside and becomes very affectionate, you may just have a female cat that is in heat, so make sure you keep the males away.
Instructions
Listen for excessive whining from your female cat. Cats that are in heat will make continuous vocalizations, or caterwauling, trying to get the attention of the other male cats in the area. This can happen at any point during the day, all day, and into the night. If you have a female cat that lives indoors, she may sit herself at an open window or screen door.
Pay close attention to whether your female cat is rubbing up against the furniture or other people. A female cat that is in heat will rub her face and body onto chairs and sofas, and will also roll on the floor more than usual. She may also become more playful and appear to have boundless energy.
Pet your female cat and see if she raises her hind quarters when you do so. A cat that is in heat will be extra affectionate when you give her attention, and a sure sign that she is in heat is if she raises her backside in the air as you run your hands through her fur.
Close the doors quickly upon exiting and entering your home. If you have an indoor cat that is in heat she will make every attempt to get outside. Even if she has never shown an interest in being outdoors prior, when she is in heat she will want to try to find a mate.
Notice if there are any new male cat friends that have been hanging around your house lately. If your female cat is in heat and she has been calling to them, the males will find her and show up at your doorstep.