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Why is my male cat attracted to a female cat who just gave birth?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 4 years and 5 months old | 11 lbs

does a female cat produce hormones after giving birth that can be smelled by a male cat?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on September 23rd, 2017

Some cats can go back into heat very quickly after giving birth, and that will cause a male cat to be attracted to her. Tangerine may also be smelling the scent of the kittens, which would make him interested in what is producing this new smell. I would keep the mother cat completely separated from Tangerine and any other cats while nursing her kittens so she can be a stress free as possible. I hope this helps!

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