Vet experts explain what happens when kittens hit puberty and enter their teenage phase

It’s tough growing up, particularly when puberty strikes and hormones go haywire. But did you know that cats go through puberty too? Like humans and all other animals, cats go through puberty to reproduce. Registered Veterinary Surgeon Sarah Elliott explains what happens when kittens become teenagers.   

What age do cats go through puberty?

Cats start puberty when they are around four months old. This is when they become sexually active and can start to reproduce. Puberty typically lasts until they are around 12 months old. This is when they turn from teenagers into adult cats.  

What happens to cats during puberty?

During puberty, cats experience several physical and behavioural changes. This is caused by the hormones produced as they reach sexual maturity. This is a natural part of their development but some of these changes can be challenging for owners to cope with. Getting your cat neutered when they are four months old will prevent a lot of these difficult behaviours. Find out more about neutering your cat. 

How do I know if my cat is going through puberty?

You can tell if your cat is going through puberty by looking out for the signs that show sexual maturity. These vary depending on whether your cat is male or female.

Male cat puberty symptoms

1. Increased aggression. Male cats may become more territorial and aggressive, especially towards other male cats. They might engage in fights as they compete for a mate.
2. Spraying. They may start spraying pee around the house or outside to mark their territory and attract a mate.
3. Roaming. Male cats often start trying to escape the house or roam further than normal in search of a mate.
4. Vocalisation. You might notice an increase in loud, vocal meowing or yowling, especially at night. This is how they call for a female cat to mate with. 
5. Enlarged testicles. You may notice that their testicles become more prominent or enlarged as they reach sexual maturity.
6. Increased sexual behaviour. Both male and female cats might start displaying mating-related behaviours. For example, attempting to mate with objects or other animals.

Female cat puberty symptoms

When they reach puberty, female cats will go into heat every two to three weeks during the mating season. This season usually runs from January until the autumn months every year. Female cats can go into heat up to 20 times a year and a typical cycle lasts seven days. The signs that female cats are in heat include: 

1. Loud vocalisations. They often become more vocal, with yowling or loud meowing to attract males.
2. Increased affection. They may become unusually affectionate, rubbing against you or other objects.
3. Posture changes. You might see them arching their back and raising their rear end in the air. This is to attract a mate. 
4. Restlessness. Some females become more agitated or restless. They may pace around or try to escape outside to find a mate. 
5. Increased sexual behaviour. Both male and female cats might start displaying mating-related behaviours. For example, attempting to mate with objects or other animals.

Do neutered cats go through puberty?

Neutered cats do not go through puberty in the same way that unneutered cats do. Neutering involves the removal of the reproductive organs. This means they no longer produce the hormones responsible for the physical and behavioural changes associated with puberty. 

Do cats go through a teenage phase?

Cats do go through a ‘teenage’ phase, typically around the time they reach puberty. This occurs when they are between four to 12 months old, depending on the cat. During this time, their behaviour can shift as they navigate the transition from kittenhood to adulthood. 

Signs your cat is in their teenage phase

1. Increased independence. Cats may become less dependent on their owners and more interested in exploring their environment. They might spend more time alone or seek solitude, which can resemble a rebellious teenage attitude.
2. Heightened energy. As they grow, cats might experience bursts of high energy, leading to more playfulness or zoomies. They can also become more curious, investigating new spaces or objects. Find out more about zoomies. 
3. Aggression. Some cats might show signs of territorial behaviour or increased aggression during this stage. This can be a result of reaching sexual maturity, especially if they are unneutered. Find out more about cat aggression. 
4. Mood swings. Like teenagers, cats may exhibit mood swings. They might be affectionate one moment and distant the next. Or they may demand attention when it’s inconvenient.
5. Socialisation changes. Cats may also start to interact with other animals differently. They may become more territorial or might challenge other pets in the house. Especially if they are starting to feel more mature and confident.

After this teenage phase, cats tend to settle into more balanced and adult behaviour, especially if they are neutered.

What is the most difficult age for a cat?

The most difficult age for a cat can vary depending on the individual. But generally, adolescence (around four months to two years) is often considered the most challenging phase. During this period, cats undergo significant physical and behavioural changes. This can result in certain difficulties for both the cat and their owner. 

1. Puberty and hormonal changes. This can lead to the puberty symptoms listed above if the cat is not neutered. 
2. Increased energy and playfulness. Adolescent cats are full of energy and curiosity. This can lead to zoomies, where they run around frantically for a few minutes. They may also start to explore more, which could lead to accidents or damage to your home. Make sure you give your cat plenty of opportunities for interactive play. This will help burn off some of that excess energy. Find out how to play with your cat. 
3. Growth spurts and discomfort. Like humans, adolescent cats experience growth spurts. This can sometimes make them a bit clumsy or restless. They might also experience teething or other discomforts during this time. Find out more about teething.

After puberty, cats generally settle down and become more balanced and easier to manage. Neutering during this period can help reduce some of the hormonal-driven behaviours, making this phase a bit smoother.

Do cats mentally age?  

Cats do mentally age as they get older, like how humans experience cognitive changes over time. Here’s how mental ageing in cats typically progresses:

1. Young cats (0 to two years old). Kittens are curious and learn quickly. They are highly receptive to new experiences and stimuli, and their brains are developing rapidly. As they reach puberty, they may exhibit more independence. But they are still highly trainable and mentally sharp.
2. Adult cats (three to six years old). At this age, cats are typically in their prime. They are mentally alert and active and maintain a strong ability to learn and adapt. They are usually well-socialised and settled into their environment. Adult cats tend to show consistent behaviour patterns. While they may slow down physically, their cognitive abilities remain sharp.
3. Mature cats (seven to 10 years old). As cats enter their mature years, you might notice subtle signs of mental ageing. They may become less active or show signs of decreased memory or learning ability. Mature cats may exhibit changes in behaviour, such as becoming more forgetful or having trouble with tasks they used to handle easily. For example, using the litter box or responding to their name.
4. Senior cats (11+ years old). In senior cats, cognitive decline can become more noticeable. They may sleep more, be less responsive, or show signs of confusion or forgetfulness. While this is a normal part of ageing, it’s essential to watch for any significant changes in behaviour. This could signify health issues that need veterinary attention. Find advice on caring for elderly cats. 

Find out more about cat reproduction and kitten care.