I've been cat-sitting my friend’s male cat for about 2 months now, and he's recently started displaying some unusual behavior. It started with frequent meowing in front of my bedroom door around 2-3 a.m., attempts to sneak out of my room, and eventually refusing to eat. Concerned, I asked my friend and sent her a video. She confirmed that he’s likely in heat, yearning for my brother’s female cat in the next room, and that him refusing to eat was merely an act of rebellion over me not letting him get with my brother's cat.

Lately, it’s gotten worse. I’ve been sick these past few days, and his meowing has become relentless. We’ve ruled out sickness since he’s otherwise acting normal, apart from persistently trying to open the door whenever I ignore him.

I really need to get my sleep routine back on track. Can anyone suggest ways to help calm him down (catnip, scents, etc.)? Or does anyone know how long this behavior might last? Any advice would be appreciated!