Types of Heats and Ruts
Normal Heat
A natural cycle for Omegas and Sigmas, occurring every three months (or annually for Sigmas).
Symptoms:
- Elevated body temperature, increased pheromone production, heightened arousal.
- Emotional vulnerability and a strong desire for physical closeness or mating.
Management:
- Can be managed with suppressants or by isolating in a heat nest.
- Supportive care from pack members is optional but appreciated.
Normal Rut
A natural cycle for Alphas, Sigmas, and Enigmas, occurring every three months (or annually for Sigmas).
Symptoms:
- Increased aggression, possessiveness, and a strong drive to mate.
- Heightened pheromone output and physical strength.
Management:
- Can be managed with suppressants or by isolating in a rut den.
- Physical exertion and cold showers can help alleviate symptoms.
Semi-Critical Rejection Heat/Rut (SCRH/Ru)
Triggered by feelings of rejection from a pack or mate, leading to emotional and physical distress.
Symptoms:
- A growing sense of rot or decay in personal scent.
- Fatigue, weakened immune system, and emotional instability.
- Reduced appetite and dehydration.
Management:
- Requires immediate support from a platonic pack or trusted individuals.
- Physical comfort (holding, hugging, and close proximity) is essential.
- Ensuring proper hydration and nutrition is critical.
Risk Level:
Not fatal but can have long-term effects on health and emotional well-being if untreated.
Critical Rejection Heat/Rut (CRH/Ru)
An advanced and dangerous state of rejection heat/rut that can become fatal without intervention.
Symptoms:
- Severe rot-like scent that repels others.
- Extreme physical weakness, fever, and potential organ failure.
- Emotional collapse, often accompanied by depressive or self-destructive tendencies.
Management:
- Immediate medical intervention is required to stabilize the body.
- Pack or mate must provide intense emotional and physical support.
- Long-term care to rebuild emotional trust and physical health.
Risk Level:
Life-threatening if left untreated.
Suppressed Heat/Rut
A heat or rut that occurs despite the use of suppressants, often due to skipped doses, high stress, or hormonal imbalances.
Symptoms:
- Similar to normal heat/rut but less intense.
- Emotional frustration or irritability due to the incomplete suppression of natural cycles.
Management:
- Discontinue suppressants temporarily and allow the cycle to complete.
- Supportive care from pack members can ease the process.
Induced Heat/Rut
Triggered artificially by external factors, such as exposure to strong pheromones, certain medications, or emotional/physical stimulation.
Symptoms:
- Rapid onset of heat/rut symptoms, often more intense than normal cycles.
- May cause confusion or distress if unexpected.
Management:
- Isolation or controlled exposure to pack/mates until symptoms subside.
- Hydration and calming techniques are recommended.
Bonding Heat/Rut
A special cycle triggered by the formation or strengthening of a mate bond.
Symptoms:
Intensified pheromone production, heightened emotional and physical connection with the mate.
Strong desire to solidify the bond through physical intimacy.
Management:
- Requires close proximity to the mate; separation can cause distress.
- Typically resolves naturally once the bond is established.
Prolonged or Stalled Heat/Rut
A heat/rut that either lasts longer than normal or fails to progress naturally, often due to stress or hormonal imbalances.
Symptoms:
- Persistent symptoms without resolution, leading to exhaustion.
- Emotional frustration and potential physical complications.
Management:
- Medical intervention may be necessary to regulate hormones.
- Pack/mate support can help alleviate emotional stress.