A cat’s body temperature typically runs a little higher than that of humans. Have you ever touched your cat’s belly or ears and realized they were warmer than you expected? That can make it harder to determine when your feline family member has a fever. Initially, you might notice that they feel quite a bit hotter than normal. They may also show you some signs that they don’t feel well.

The combination of feeling hotter than usual and acting like they don’t feel up to par may be signs you notice when cats have a fever. The important thing is that you notice the signals that something is wrong, so you can get them to the vet if needed.

What are the Signs of Fever in a Cat?

A cat’s body temp usually runs between 100.5 and 102.5⁰ F. Once it goes above 102.5⁰ F, they probably have a fever. The fever indicates that there is something else going on. When the body temperature is elevated, you may notice some other signs that your cat is not feeling well. These might include:

·         Lethargy

·         Hiding

·         Shivering

·         Change in appetite

·         Not drinking much water

·         Diarrhea

·         Vomiting

·         Seizures (Usually only if their temperature is extremely high)

How to Take Your Cat’s Temperature

To get an accurate body temperature on your cat, you’ll need to use a rectal digital thermometer. If you have never done this, or you aren’t properly trained, you can injure your cat. Don’t try it if you haven’t done it before. It’s better to let the vet get an accurate temp.

Checking a Rectal Temperature

If you do know how to do it, don’t use a glass thermometer. It is very dangerous for your cat, since the glass could break and cause serious injuries. To use a digital thermometer, first lubricate it. You can use a water-based lubricant or petroleum jelly.  

Your cat may be uncomfortable with this procedure. (You would be too!) It’s sometimes helpful to have another person distract your kitty with love and petting while you slip the tip of the thermometer into the anus. If your cat is aggressive or has pain in the anal area, do not take a rectal temperature. For example, a rectal temp should not be attempted if your cat has a mass, anal sac disease, or constipation.

Using a Pediatric Thermometer to Check Your Cat’s Temperature

If you are not comfortable or experienced at taking a cat’s rectal temperature, you can use a pediatric ear thermometer. Just hold the thermometer close to the cat’s ear or hold it in your cat’s armpit until the thermometer beeps. You can also find thermometers that are designed to be used in the armpit.

If you can’t get an accurate temp on your cat, don’t stress it too much. Just schedule a visit with your veterinarian and let the experts do it for you.

What Causes Fever in Cats?

There are two reasons a cat may experience increased body temperature. When a cat has a fever, it means their body is fighting a disease that causes their temp to rise above normal levels. You might see your cat shivering in this case. There are lots of medical reasons your cat’s temperature could rise.

·         Bacterial infections (including wounds)

·         Viral infections

·         Fungal infections

·         Cancer (especially mast cell tumor or lymphoma)

·         Vaccine reactions

·         Autoimmune diseases

You can help prevent fever due to infections by keeping your cat clean using Pawer Cat Wipes. Cats often contact disease-causing bacteria and germs when they play outside. When they come inside, use our wipes to clean off germs and bacteria.

Another reason is “hyperthermia” which may cause a temporary increase in the cat’s body temperature. Exposure to toxins, elevated ambient temps, or a disease or disorder can cause signs like shaking or panting, which ultimately leads to an increased body temp.

Some of the most common causes of hyperthermia include:

·         Elevated ambient temperature, heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat stress

·         Prolonged seizures

·         Exposure to toxins (such as when dog flea and tick medications are used on a cat)

·         Hyperthyroidism

·         Excitement or stress

·         Some medications

·         Malignant hyperthermia

Treating Fever in Cats

You’ll first want to talk to your cat’s veterinarian to get an accurate diagnosis. You’ll need to know about any underlying causes to ensure proper treatment. Your vet can do an evaluation and then recommend or develop a treatment plan.

Do not use human medications to treat your cat’s fever. These medications can be harmful, even fatal for cats!

Hydration is one of the best treatments for fever in cats. If your cat feels like eating, add some water to their food. You can also add some low-sodium chicken stock (without garlic or onions) to their food. If you have some tuna that is canned in water (not oil), drain off the water and offer that to your kitty. Always make sure they have a water bowl available near where they spend their time. If they won’t eat or can’t keep food down, contact your veterinarian.

The best option if your cat has a fever is to treat the underlying cause. Treating an illness or infection will take care of the fever, too. Just remember that sometimes, getting a diagnosis can take some time. Your vet may run a few tests to determine the cause. The vet may administer fluids to your cat to treat dehydration that is common when a cat runs a fever.

When Should I Take My Cat to the Vet for a Fever?

There are some specific times when it’s best to take your cat straight to the vet.

·         If your cat has a temperature of 103.5⁰ F

·         Your cat is not eating or drinking much.

·         They are vomiting.

·         They have diarrhea.

·         Your cat has become lethargic.

·         They have a fever for over 24 hours.

Any of these items indicate your cat needs to go to the vet. If your cat has a seizure, is panting excessively, or if they collapse or their temp goes above 104⁰ F, it is a medical emergency. You should take them to the vet or emergency animal clinic immediately.

About the Author: Fiona

Fiona is the current President and CEO of Pawer Lab. She makes sure everything is running purrfectly and oversees the day-to-day operations. When Fiona is not working, she enjoys chasing lasers, snacking on treats, or taking long naps in the sun.