High Fever in Dogs: Severity & Can It Be Fatal?

How Severe is a Dog's Fever When It's Coughing and Sneezing?

It's generally understood that a dog's common cold doesn't typically lead to a fever. However, if your furry friend's temperature spikes above 40 degrees Celsius, it's a sign that their cold has become quite serious. At this point, it's crucial to act quickly to cool them down. You can do this by soaking a towel in cold water and gently wiping your dog's paws, belly, and ears, or by using cotton balls dipped in alcohol to help dissipate heat. If the fever persists or recurs, it's essential to seek veterinary care immediately.

A temperature exceeding 40.5 degrees Celsius is considered a severe fever and necessitates immediate veterinary attention, including the administration of antipyretic injections to prevent secondary infections.

There are numerous reasons for a dog's elevated body temperature. If the rise is isolated to a specific situation, it usually resolves with the use of antipyretic medication. However, if your dog's temperature fluctuates after taking such medication, it may indicate a canine distemper infection, which can be difficult to distinguish from a cold. In such cases, a visit to the vet for further examination and treatment is imperative.

Can a Dog Die from a Cold with a Fever?

While a dog's cold itself is not fatal, the weakened immune system during this period can lead to complications such as pneumonia or bronchitis. These can, in turn, lead to more severe health issues, including shock and even death. Therefore, when your dog is suffering from a cold, it's vital to treat them promptly with appropriate medication or by seeking professional veterinary care.

How to Measure a Dog's Temperature

To measure your dog's temperature, first, disinfect the thermometer and ensure it's below 35 degrees Celsius. Then, have one person gently hold the dog while the other slowly inserts the thermometer into the dog's rectum until the tip is no longer visible. Wait for 35 minutes, remove the thermometer, and read the temperature.

What to Do When a Dog Has a Cold with a Fever?

When your dog exhibits symptoms of a cold with a fever, it's important to address the underlying cause, which is often referred to as "treating the cause." Here's what you can do:

1. Address the source of the illness by administering petspecific cold and antibiotic medications.

2. Keep your dog warm to prevent the condition from worsening.

3. Avoid using human overthecounter medications or administering injections without veterinary guidance, especially for puppies, whose immune systems are more vulnerable.

4. Maintain a clean living environment, regularly cleaning the dog's living area and their belongings (toys, food and water bowls, etc.).

5. Adjust your dog's sleeping environment and habits to prevent them from catching a chill. Temporarily avoid bathing your dog and ensure they are thoroughly dried after a bath.

I hope this information on the severity of a dog's fever when they have a cold and the potential risks is helpful. If you have more questions about your dog's cold, you can learn more through resources like "My Dog Has a Cold" or consult with an online veterinary professional for personalized advice.