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My cat acts like she's in heat, but isn't. Is it allergies or ears?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed | 4 lbs

My female cat has been laying low on her stomach, ears back, has raised fur like she's uncomfortable, and keeps rubbing her face on the carpet. She's honestly acting like she's in heat, but I know that she's not. To me, it seems like her mouth or ears are bothering her. She hasn't been scratching at any areas, and I'm not seeing signs of mites or fleas. Is this how cats can act if they have allergies, or maybe an ear infection? There has been no change in her diet, behavior, or use of bathroom.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Stacey Anstaett, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 8th, 2018

I agree with you, it sounds like she’s in heat! I don’t see her age listed, but I see she is not spayed and she’s 4 pounds so I’m assuming she’s a kitten. If she goes outside and is around intact males, she may go into heat a bit earlier than expected, which is usually 6 months.

With aar infections cats tend to scratch their ears and shake their head, rather than roll around as you’re describing.

If she’s eating normally, I doubt it’s her mouth, but an exam would have to be performed to have a better idea.

Allergies would be possible but often don’t start causing an issue until adulthood, and again would be expected to cause itchiness and scratching, redness on the skin, sneezing, etc.

If her abnormal behavior continues, take her in. Again I suspect she may be in heat.
Good luck with her!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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