A fever in cats is a condition characterized by an increase in body temperature above the normal range. It is usually caused by an infection but can also be the result of other underlying medical conditions. If your cat has a fever, it is important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible.
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Introduction
If your cat has a fever, it’s important to take action quickly to bring their temperature down and make them more comfortable. In this article, we’ll explain what causes feline fevers, how to take your cat’s temperature, and what you can do at home to help ease your cat’s symptoms.
What is a Fever?
A fever is a temperature that is higher than normal for your cat. The average body temperature for a cat is between 100.5 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit, so a fever would be any temperature above this range.
If your cat has a fever, it may be lethargic, have a reduced appetite, and be experiencing muscle aches. A fever can also cause dehydration, so it’s important to make sure your cat is drinking plenty of water.
Fever can be caused by many different things, including infections, injuries, or diseases. If your cat has a fever, it’s important to take them to the vet so they can determine the cause and treat it accordingly.
Causes of Fever in Cats
Fever is a common symptom in cats, and can be caused by a number of underlying conditions. In most cases, fever is the result of an infection, but it can also be caused by inflammation, cancer, or other diseases.
Infections are the most common cause of fever in cats. Bacterial infections are the most serious type of infection and can cause sepsis, a potentially life-threatening condition. Viral infections are less serious but can still cause fever, lethargy, and loss of appetite.
Inflammation is another common cause of fever in cats. Inflammatory diseases like arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease can cause fever, pain, and other symptoms. Cancer can also cause inflammation and fever as the tumor grows and spreads.
Other diseases that can cause fever include autoimmune diseases like lupus or thyroid disease. Kidney disease and heart disease can also lead to fever as a result of organ dysfunction.
If your cat has a fever, it is important to see a veterinarian so that the underlying cause can be diagnosed and treated. Treatment will vary depending on the cause of the fever but may include antibiotics, pain relief medication, or other medication.
Symptoms of Fever in Cats
If you think your cat has a fever, take its temperature. Normal body temperature for a cat is between 100.5 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). You can take your cat’s temperature rectally with a pet thermometer.
If your cat does have a fever, it will likely have other symptoms as well, such as lethargy and loss of appetite. It may also have a respiratory infection or an ear infection. If your cat has any of these symptoms, make an appointment with your veterinarian right away.
Diagnosing Fever in Cats
If you think your cat has a fever, take its temperature rectally with a digital thermometer. Do not use a mercury thermometer as these are not as accurate and can break, causing your cat (and you) to be exposed to toxic mercury. A normal temperature for a healthy cat is between 100° and 102.5°F (37.8°-39.2°C). If your cat’s temperature is higher than this, it has a fever.
Treating Fever in Cats
If your cat has a fever, it’s important to take them to the vet as soon as possible. In the meantime, there are a few things you can do at home to help make your cat more comfortable.
First, make sure your cat has plenty of fresh water to drink. Fever can cause dehydration, so it’s important to keep your cat hydrated. You can also offer them small amounts of wet food, as eating can help bring down a fever.
If your cat is uncomfortable, you can give them a small amount of children’s aspirin (no more than 5 milligrams per pound of body weight) for pain relief. Be sure to talk to your vet before giving aspirin to your cat, as it can have serious side effects if not used properly.
You should also keep an eye on your cat’s temperature and breathing rate. A rectal temperature of over 103 degrees Fahrenheit is considered high for cats and warrants a trip to the vet. If you’re concerned about your cat’s breathing, watch for any changes in their respiratory rate or pattern. If you notice any changes, or if your cat’s temperature remains high despite home treatment, call your vet immediately.
Prevention of Fever in Cats
Cats can develop fevers for a variety of reasons, from infection to stress. A fever is a sign that something is wrong, and it’s important to take your cat to the vet as soon as possible for a diagnosis.
In the meantime, there are some things you can do to prevent your cat from getting a fever:
-Keep your cat up-to-date on vaccinations. This will help prevent viral infections that can cause fevers.
-Keep your cat away from other sick animals. If another pet in the house is sick, keep them away from your cat to prevent the spread of disease.
– reduce stress in your cat’s life. Stress can weaken the immune system and make your cat more susceptible to illness. Consider using Feliway diffusers or sprays to help reduce stress in your home.
If you think your cat may have a fever, take their temperature with a digital rectal thermometer. A normal temperature for a cat is between 100 and 102 degrees Fahrenheit. If their temperature is above 103 degrees Fahrenheit, they have a fever and you should take them to the vet immediately.
