The cat temperature may be measured in the ear or in the rectum.
Taking the Rectal Temperature
The most accurate way to determine your cat's temperature is to use a rectal thermometer.
- Hold your cat firmly by his front legs. You will probably need someone to assist you, because cats may be uncooperative. It often helps to grab the cat by the scruff-the back of the neck, which is how the mother holds the kittens.
- Lubricate the thermometer with a gel or water-based lubricant. Make sure the thermometer is below 94 °F before you insert it.
- Lift the cat's tail and introduce the thermometer 1 inch inside the cat's rectum.
- Hold the thermometer for 2 minutes and the see what the cat's temperature is.
Taking the Ear Temperature
Use an ear thermometer to determine if your cat has a fever. You will be able to find a pet ear thermometer in a pet store. The ear temperature may not be as accurate as the rectal temperature.
- Calm your cat down and make sure he stays still for a couple of minutes while you take the temperature. You might need a helper. You can wrap your cat in a towel to make him feel more comfortable.
- Place the thermometer deep in the ear canal, to make sure that the temperature is accurate. However, be careful not to go too close to the ear drum-which can cause hearing problems.
- Hold the thermometer for 2 minutes and read the result.
A normal temperature should be between 100 to 102.5°F (37.7 to 39.1°C). Both the rectal and the ear temperature should give you the same results.
If your cat's temperature is above the normal temperature this might be a clear sign of infection or parasites.
A temperature that is below normal is also an alarm signal-it might tell you that your cat has suffered from a shock.
A cat fever will be treated by determining the cause of the fever. Meanwhile, a lot of liquids will be administrated to decrease the temperature. Don't bathe your cat while he has fever.