Fever in a cat is one of the most common reasons to call your vet. It’s also a sign that something is wrong. But what could it be? We’ve all been there before, feeling confused about whether it’s time to head to the emergency vet or wait and see if it gets better. Here are 10 key signs of a fever in cats, so you can be sure that you’re helping your cat not only get better faster, but also reduce the stress on both of you during this time.
A fever is one of the first warning signs of more severe illness. If your cat has a fever, then this article will discuss why it’s a worrying sign and what you need to do. What Is A Fever? A fever is defined as a rise in the body temperature higher than usual. The normal body temperature of cats is 100.5 degrees F (38.1 degrees C).
Signs of a fever in a cat are common and can be easily managed. If your cat has a fever, it’s important to take them to the vet to get the right treatment.
Cats can have fevers for a number of reasons. A fever is your cat’s body’s way of fighting off illness and infection, so if your cat has one, it means that they are trying to heal themselves. However, if their fever becomes too high—over 106 degrees Fahrenheit—it can cause damage to their organs and other tissues.
Here are some signs of a fever in cats:
1) Lethargy or fatigue – As mentioned above, this is your cat’s body’s way of healing itself from an illness or infection. Your cat may sleep more than usual during this time period as well.
2) Vomiting or diarrhea – These symptoms often accompany fevers in cats because it is their body’s way of ridding itself of toxins and bacteria that may be causing the illness or infection in the first place!
3) Loss of appetite – This is another symptom that indicates that your cat’s body needs time away from food so it can focus on healing itself! If your cat doesn’t eat
There are many signs of a fever in a cat.
The first thing you’ll notice is a change in the cat’s behavior. A healthy cat will be active, playful and affectionate. A sick cat will be lethargic, weak, and may not want to eat or drink. If you see these signs, it’s important to take your pet to the vet as soon as possible.
Other signs of fever include:
-Increased pulse rate (120 beats per minute)
-Body temperature over 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius)
-Decreased appetite and thirst
Signs Of A Fever In A Cat
How To Take Your Cat’s Temperature
Cats typically have a normal body temperature of 100.4º to 102.5º Fahrenheit. A fever is characterized by a temperature of more than 102.5º F in cats. If your kitty’s temperature goes beyond 106º F your pet is at serious risk of damage to their vital organs.
Taking your cat’s temperature fairly straight forward. Simply use a digital thermometer aimed at your cat’s ear, or use a pediatric rectal thermometer for a more accurate reading. Never use an older style mercury thermometer when taking your pet’s temperature! If the thermometer breaks it can be very harmful to your kitty’s health.
A pediatric rectal thermometer is the best way to accurately measure your pet’s temperature and determine whether your cat has a fever. Apply petroleum jelly to the thermometer to lubricate it, then gently insert it. It’s important not to go too far as it could damage your cat’s delicate rectal tissue. You may need someone to help you calmly restrain your cat while you insert the thermometer. Leave the thermometer in place for at least two minutes in order to get a correct reading.
If you think that your cat may have a fever but feel uncomfortable taking their temperature, contact your vet right away to book an appointment. Your veterinarian will be able to assess your kitty’s temperature and overall health quickly and accurately.
Causes of Fever in Cats
Fevers generally occur in cats when their immune system is activated by conditions such as:
- Bacterial, viral, or fungal infection
- Injury
- Trauma
- Certain medications
- A tumor
- Diseases such as lupus
Outdoor cats are at the highest risk for exposure to diseases that may cause fever, such as:
- Cytauxzoonosis – A tick-borne condition also more commonly known as bobcat fever in cats.
- Haemobartonellosis – A parasitic bacterial blood infection seen in cats.
- Ehrlichiosis – Also a tick-borne condition that can affect cats.
- Bartonellosis – More commonly known as cat scratch fever.
- Toxoplasmosis – A parasitic condition known to cause fever in cats.
Signs That Your Cat May Have a Fever
Depending on the underlying cause, your cat may display one or more of the following symptoms if they are suffering from a fever:
- Lack of appetite
- Weakness or lethargy
- Shivering
- Rapid heart rate
- Decreased activity
- Decreased drinking
- Dehydration
- Poor grooming
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
What To Do If Your Cat Has a Fever
Never give your cat human medications without the explicit advice of a veterinarian! Many human medications, such as acetaminophen, can be extremely toxic to cats.
Make sure your kitty stays hydrated by ensuring that they have easy access to fresh clean water and make sure they have a comfortable place to relax.
If your cat’s fever lasts longer than 24 hours or goes above 106º F contact your vet to book an urgent appointment or visit your local emergency animal hospital.
Your vet will do a full examination of your cat to determine the cause of your pet’s fever, and prescribe the best treatment to help restore your cat’s good health. In some cases, even after an extensive veterinary examination, the cause may not be evident and your cat could be diagnosed with a fever of unknown origin (FUO). If your cat has moderate or severe dehydration, intravenous fluids may be used to help your cat feel better and fight off illness.