Measuring Cat's Fever: How to Check Feline Temperature

If your cat exhibits symptoms of a cold that persist for several days or even up to two weeks without improvement, it's time to take this situation seriously. Under no circumstances should you delay seeking help due to a misplaced sense of optimism.

Severe colds in cats can lead to symptoms such as coughing, dehydration, and lowgrade fevers. So, what should you do if your cat is suffering from a cold? It's crucial to act promptly and implement measures to combat the cold.

Measuring Your Cat's Temperature

Should your cat's temperature rise above 39 degrees Celsius, it's essential to take your pet to the vet for a cooling injection. Here are three methods for measuring your cat's temperature:

1. Leg Temperature Measurement (Simple but Less Accurate)

Method: Use a standard mercury thermometer and hold it against your cat's thigh, just below the knee, for about 5 minutes. Add 0.5 degrees Celsius to the reading.

Note: Since cats can be restless, it's best to measure their temperature when they are sleeping or lying still. Due to the lower accuracy of this method, it's advisable to take two or more readings and compare the temperatures.

2. Ear Temperature Measurement (Slightly Lower Than Rectal Temperature)

Method: Use a petspecific ear thermometer (human ear thermometers are not suitable for cats).

3. Rectal Temperature Measurement (Most Accurate, but More Difficult to Perform)

Step 1: Disinfect the thermometer with alcohol and shake it down to below 35 degrees Celsius. Apply a small amount of Vaseline, red霉素 ointment (for its antiinflammatory properties), or even a drop of water (for lubrication).

Step 2: Gently insert the thermometer into your cat's rectum about 5 cm deep, and wait for 3 to 5 minutes before removing it to check the result.

Note: If your cat is extremely resistant and struggles, or if you are not familiar with the measurement process, it's best to switch to one of the other methods. (This is because there is a risk of the mercury thermometer breaking.)

Cat Temperature Reference

Low Temperature: Below 37.5 degrees Celsius

Normal: 37.5 to 39 degrees Celsius

Fever: 39 to 39.5 degrees Celsius

High Fever: 39.5 to 40 degrees Celsius

Hyperthermia: Above 40 degrees Celsius

Comparing Cat Temperatures

1. Puppies and Kittens Have Higher Body Temperatures Than Adult Cats.

2. Cats Have Higher Temperatures at Night Than in the Morning.

3. Cats Are Warmer in Summer Than in Winter.

4. Cats Can Have Elevated Temperatures Due to Intense Exercise or Stress.