Kitten in heat

Question
I have a six-month-old kitten I rescued and 11 older kitties. Because the last cat I took to the local vet died in surgery (improperly monitored post dental)I procrastinated and did not get her in prior to her going into heat.  She has an appointment on March 9th to get spayed. Is there anything I can do to relieve her discomfort?  I feel horrible for not taking her in before she had to endure this.  Thanks so much.

Answer
Hi Lesley.  So sorry to hear about your kitty.  I most certainly understand your apprehension to put another kitty through surgery.  

There really isn't anything you can do to relieve a kitty in heat.  Mating can satisfy them temporarily, so some people will have their vets demonstrate how to stimulate their cats with a rectal thermometer.  This only brings temporary relief and is probably more uncomfortable for the owner than it's worth for the cat, not to mention the stress of the vet visit!  The only thing that will end her urges for longer than a matter of hours is a pregnancy.