Cat Fever: Symptoms, Causes, and When to Worry

Knowing when your feline friend is feeling under the weather is crucial for their well-being. A key indicator of illness in cats is fever. But how high is too high, and what should you do about it? This article will delve into the causes and symptoms of fever in cats, and provide guidance on when to seek veterinary attention.

Understanding Cat Body Temperature

A cat’s normal body temperature is generally higher than a human’s. The average range for a healthy cat is 38°C to 39.5°C (100.4°F to 103.1°F). It’s important to note that a cat’s temperature can fluctuate slightly throughout the day. Typically, a cat’s temperature will be lower in the morning and slightly higher in the evening.

How to Tell if Your Cat Has a Fever

The most accurate way to determine if your cat has a fever is to take its temperature using a digital rectal thermometer. Here’s how:

1. Lubricate the thermometer with petroleum jelly or a water-based lubricant.

2. Gently lift the cat’s tail.

3. Carefully insert the thermometer about 2-3 centimeters (1-1.5 inches) into the rectum.

4. Wait for the thermometer to beep, indicating it has taken a reading.

5. Remove the thermometer and read the temperature.

Alternative methods for checking temperature (less accurate):

If your cat is resistant to rectal temperature taking, you can try to take temperature from armpit or groin. If you get a fever temperature from these areas, confirm again by using rectal temperature taking.

Under strong resistance, you can measure cat’s temperature from ear by using ear thermometer.

Keep in mind that stress or excitement can temporarily elevate a cat’s temperature. If your cat struggles excessively during the process, the reading may be slightly higher than normal.

Beyond the Thermometer: Recognizing the Symptoms

While a thermometer provides the definitive answer, there are several signs and symptoms that can suggest your cat has a fever:

Lethargy: A cat with a fever will often be sluggish, less playful, and may sleep more than usual.

Loss of appetite: A decreased interest in food or a complete refusal to eat is a common symptom of fever in cats. Even favorite treats may be rejected.

Dehydration: Fever can lead to dehydration. Check for dry gums, sunken eyes, and decreased skin elasticity. To test skin elasticity, gently pinch the skin on the back of the neck. If it doesn’t spring back quickly, your cat may be dehydrated.

Rapid or shallow breathing: Fever can cause an increased heart rate and respiratory rate. You may notice your cat breathing faster than usual or panting (which is unusual for cats).

Shivering: Although fever generates body heat, a cat might shiver or tremble, especially if the fever is accompanied by chills.

Hiding: Sick cats often withdraw and hide in secluded spots.

Changes in grooming habits: A cat with a fever may stop grooming itself or may excessively groom certain areas due to discomfort.

Warm ears and paws: While not always reliable indicators, ears and paws that feel unusually warm can be a sign of fever.

Third eyelid protrusion: The nictitating membrane (third eyelid) may be more visible in a cat with a fever.

If you observe several of these symptoms, along with a confirmed elevated temperature, it’s time to consult a veterinarian.

What Causes Fever in Cats?

Fever in cats is not a disease itself, but rather a symptom of an underlying condition. Numerous factors can trigger a fever in felines, including:

Infections: Bacterial, viral, and fungal infections are common causes of fever in cats.

Upper Respiratory Infections (URIs): Cat flu, caused by viruses like feline herpesvirus and feline calicivirus, often presents with fever, sneezing, coughing, and runny eyes.

Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP): A fatal viral disease that can cause fever, abdominal swelling, and neurological signs.

Abscesses: Infected bite wounds or puncture wounds can lead to fever.

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Infections in the bladder or kidneys can cause fever, painful urination, and increased thirst.

Inflammation: Inflammatory conditions can also cause fever.

Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): A chronic inflammation of the digestive tract.

Arthritis: Inflammation of the joints.

Parasites: Internal parasites, such as heartworms and intestinal worms, can sometimes trigger a fever.

Toxins: Ingestion of certain toxins or poisons can lead to fever. These can include:

Antifreeze

Certain medications (like human pain relievers)

Household cleaners

Toxic plants (like lilies)

Drug Reactions: In rare cases, a cat may develop a fever as a reaction to a particular medication.

Cancer: Some types of cancer can cause fever.

Immune-mediated diseases: These conditions cause the body’s immune system to attack its own tissues.

Unidentified Origin (Fever of Unknown Origin, FUO): Sometimes, despite thorough veterinary examination, the cause of a fever cannot be determined immediately.

When to See a Veterinarian

Any fever above 39.5°C (103.1°F) warrants a visit to the veterinarian. A high fever can be dangerous and indicate a serious underlying condition. A temperature of 40°C (104°F) or higher is considered an emergency and requires immediate veterinary attention.

Furthermore, even if your cat’s temperature is only slightly elevated, you should seek veterinary care if:

The fever persists for more than 24 hours.

Your cat is showing other signs of illness, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Your cat has a pre-existing medical condition.

You are concerned about your cat’s health.

What to Expect at the Vet

During the veterinary examination, the veterinarian will:

Take a thorough history: They’ll ask about your cat’s symptoms, diet, lifestyle, and any recent travel or exposure to other animals.

Perform a physical exam: They’ll check your cat’s temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate, and overall condition.

Run diagnostic tests: Depending on the suspected cause of the fever, the veterinarian may recommend blood tests, urine tests, X-rays, or other diagnostic procedures.

Based on the findings, the veterinarian will develop a treatment plan tailored to your cat’s specific needs. Treatment may include:

Antibiotics: For bacterial infections.

Antiviral medications: For viral infections (though effective antivirals are limited for cats).

Antifungal medications: For fungal infections.

Fluid therapy: To combat dehydration.

Pain medication: To relieve discomfort.

Supportive care: Such as nutritional support and rest.

In some cases, hospitalization may be necessary to provide intensive care.

Can a Cat Fever Resolve on Its Own?

Whether a cat fever can resolve on its own depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. Mild, short-lived fevers caused by minor infections may sometimes resolve without intervention, especially in cats with strong immune systems. However, it’s generally not advisable to wait and see if a cat fever will resolve on its own, as it can indicate a serious underlying condition.

In cases where the fever is caused by a more severe infection, inflammation, or another underlying health issue, veterinary treatment is essential for recovery. Ignoring a fever or attempting to treat it at home without professional guidance can lead to complications and potentially life-threatening consequences.

Home Care Tips (under Veterinary Guidance)

Never administer human medications to cats without consulting a veterinarian, as many human drugs are toxic to felines.

If your veterinarian recommends home care, these tips can help:

Provide a quiet and comfortable environment.

Encourage your cat to drink plenty of fluids.

Offer palatable and easily digestible food.

Monitor your cat’s temperature and symptoms closely.

Conclusion

Fever in cats can be a sign of a serious health problem. By understanding the symptoms, causes, and when to seek veterinary care, you can help your feline friend get the treatment they need to recover quickly. If you suspect your cat has a fever, don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian for advice and guidance. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for ensuring your cat’s well-being.