It might be upsetting to notice that your usually healthy and active pet is suddenly lethargic or unable to eat. A fever in your dog or cat is one potential issue.
Just like humans, pets can fall prey to fevers that can put them low for a several days. Once you identify that your pet is suffering from a fever, you can take steps to help alleviate the discomfort. If your pet's temperature remains high, take them to your trusted, neighborhood vet for more information and to rule out other possibilities, such as a reaction to a recent immunization.
Learn more about feline and canine fevers and how to treat sick animals in order to keep them healthy.
What is the normal dog temperature range?
Humans run colder than dogs do. For canines, the optimal temperature range is between 101 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit, whereas it is between 97.6 and 99.6 degrees for people. Any temperature over 103 is regarded as a fever. The typical range for cats is between 99.5 and 102.5.
How do I know if my pet has a fever?
- Lethargy/depression
- Shivering
- Runny nose
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting
- Coughing
My dog has warm ears and a dry nose – that means fever, right?
Although this belief has been passed down through the decades, it is not a reliable technique to tell if your dog is feverish. Taking your pet's temperature is the only accurate technique to determine whether they are feverish.
Where should I take my dog’s temperature?
You have two choices. Using a rectal thermometer is the most accurate approach to check your dog's temperature. You must first lubricate it. Baby oil or petroleum jelly are your best options. Next, try to get your dog to lie on its side while you insert the thermometer about an inch deep into your dog's anus. Remove the reading carefully after getting it. Even though they are not as accurate, dog ear thermometers have become more and more popular over time.
How to check a dog’s temperature without a thermometer?
If you don't have a thermometer on hand, you can estimate your dog's temperature using your hands. The dog's paws, ears, groin, and armpit frequently become warm during fevers. The canine's gums can also be examined. When a fever is present, this area will warm up and become dry.
How to take a cat’s temperature in the ear?
Most cats find the concept of having their temperature taken unsettling. It needs two people to take its temperature. The cat should be held in the lap of one person. The second person should gently place the thermometer into the ear canal. With your cat's head at a 90-degree angle, hold the thermometer.
What if my pet has a fever?
Contacting your local vet should be your next move if the body temperature of your dog or cat is elevated. They can suggest some at-home treatments or ask you to bring your pet into the clinic. Fever can have a variety of causes, from minor issues like an adverse reaction to a vaccination to more serious conditions like infections or the canine flu. Other times, it is impossible to identify the source of a fever in a pet. This condition is termed as "fever of unknown origin," or FUO. In other instances, immune system issues or malignancies are the root cause of FUO.
How to comfort a dog with a fever?
There are several actions you may take to provide your pet some relief if they have a fever. With a moist towel or rag, apply cool water around their paws and ears. To assist lower their body temperature, try to encourage them to drink some water. If your vet has prescribed antibiotics to help lower the temperature, make sure your pet takes the medicines as directed. Never administer human medication to your pet; dogs and cats are highly hazardous to it.
