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Identifying Cat Fever Symptoms

Cats > Symptoms > Identifying Cat Fever Symptoms

also see Cat Fever

also see Cat Insect

A cat fever is a reaction to an infection or disease. A cat's normal body temperature is between 100 - 102.5°F (37.7 - 39.1°C). Taking a cat's temperature can be problematical, so it's good if you can identify some cat fever symptoms.

How and Why a Cat Gets a Fever

Fever or pyrexia is a response to the body to a possible infection. A part of the brain called the hypothalamus regulates the cat's body temperature. When there is an infection present, the body will signal the hypothalamus to increase the temperature. The signals are substances known as pyrogens; these fever causing particles have an outside source and are produced inside the cat's body, causing the fever.

Signs of Cat Fever

There are several symptoms that can indicate the presence of a fever. The most common ones are:

exhaustion - your cat is abnormally inactive, does not get involved in games
lack of appetite - the cat avoids food and water and shows signs of dehydration
apathy - the cat shows no interest in things that would usually make your pet agitated
constant alert breathing
the cat experiences pain when caressed; doesn't seek affection
episodes of shivering - the high body temperature can cause discomfort and chills

These are possible cat fever symptoms. However, the most precise way to tell if your cat has a fever is to take its temperature. If you notice any of the listed symptoms, take your cat to a vet; even if your cat doesn't have a fever, these signs may point to a virus or disease.

Cat Fever Treatment

If the cat body temperature rises above 102.5°F (39°C), you should keep an eye on your cat's ongoing condition, constantly taking his temperature. Meanwhile try to keep your cat hydrated, give him cold water and other fluids and decrease the room temperature. No bathing is allowed while the cat has a fever.

In case the temperature rises above 105°F (40.5°C) you need to take him to the vet. They will be able to pinpoint the problem and offer a viable treatment. Common causes of elevated cat fever include dehydration, infection, medication or hormonal imbalance. The treatment prescribed by the vet will be according to the diagnosis: a dehydrated cat will be prescribed a lot of fluids, while an infection will be treated with antibiotics.

also see Cat Scratch Fever Prevention Tips

also see How to Give a Cat a Flea Dip

also see Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP)

also see Cat Parasites