How To Tell If Your Cat Has a Fever: Understanding Normal Cat Temperature and Cat Fever Symptoms
When a cat has a fever, it’s like when humans have one: the body’s natural response to fight infection or inflammation. The hypothalamus, a part of the brain, acts like a thermostat, raising the body’s temperature to help combat the illness. The normal body temperature for cats is typically between 100 and 102.5 Fahrenheit. “A fever could be considered if a cat has a temperature above 102.5,” says Dr. David Israel, medical director of the Veterinary Emergency Group in Denver. If the temperature exceeds 103 degrees, it’s worth contacting your veterinarian, and if it goes over 106 degrees, it’s considered an emergency. Dr. Carlye Rosen, a veterinarian and clinical lead for IndeVets, notes that not all elevated temps are considered fevers. Hyperthermia, which is also a raised body temperature, can happen due to external factors. “In the case of heatstroke, physical activity, or seizure, the body hasn’t changed its set temperature point and therefore it isn’t defined as a fever,” she explains.,Jump to section What Is a Fever in Cats? Common Cat Fever Symptoms What Causes a Cat Fever? How To Tell If Your Cat Has a Fever When To Call Your Vet Treating Fever in Cats How To Tell If Your Cat Has a Fever FAQs
