How common is it for unneutered male cats to go missing for weeks because of mating behavior?

Hey everyone — my cat Enzo has been missing for 23 days now and I’m absolutely heartbroken. He’s not just a pet to me, he’s like my soul mate.

He’s 3 years old, unneutered (my vet didn’t recommend neutering because he has leukemia, and I usually take him in every few weeks for medication to help keep his immune system strong, I wish I could've done so as I know the dangers of having him unneutered).

This is the first time in his life that he’s shown obvious signs of mating behavior (never did he act like this). I kept him inside for 7 days because I was so scared something might happen, but he managed to slip out — and he’s been gone ever since.

It’s spring here in Portugal, so I imagine it’s peak mating season with several females in heat around. The weather’s been great these past 3 weeks, which might be making it easier for him to stay out, and I know there are people nearby who leave food out for stray cats, so I'm thinking he has at least some food source even if it’s not ideal.

I’ve done everything I can so far — left out a blanket he used, some of my clothing, and his litter box outside. I’ve contacted local animal institutions and shelters to spread the word and his photo, spoken to neighbors and friends, and I go out most nights calling for him when it’s quieter.

I know there are those amazing stories of cats coming back after months or even years… but what I’m really hoping to understand is how typical or common it is for an unneutered male cat to disappear for this long during mating season.

Everywhere I look online, I see 3 to 7 days mentioned as the most common time they’re gone, and that after that it gets less likely — but some people have told me that 2 to 6 weeks is also realistic.

I’d really appreciate hearing from anyone with experience, or anyone who knows this for a fact — how long do unneutered males stay away for? Is 3+ weeks still within the realm of normal or realistic behavior for an unneutered male during mating season?

Thanks so much in advance for any advice, experiences or solid info you can share — it means a lot.