Cats with Cold: Will They Fever and How to Help?
After a cat catches a cold, it is crucial for the owner to take prompt action to prevent the illness from worsening and leading to a fever.
What Can Cause a Cat to Develop a Fever?
There are numerous factors that can trigger a fever in cats. These include conditions such as bronchitis, upper respiratory infections, and pneumonia, all of which are inflammatory in nature. Additionally, other inflammatory diseases like gastrointestinal issues, encephalitis, and wound infections can also lead to a fever in felines.
How to Handle a Cat with a Fever
Cats typically have a higher normal body temperature than humans, with a normal range of 3839.5 degrees Celsius, with the exception of kittens, whose temperatures may be slightly higher. A temperature exceeding 39.5 degrees Celsius is considered a fever, and one over 40 degrees Celsius is a high fever. When a cat has a fever, it usually requires both medication and human assistance to cool down. Medications like Wena'an can quickly reduce fever and provide relief from symptoms caused by various inflammatory conditions, fevers, viral infections, and the common cold. They are highly effective in bringing down fevers rapidly. To assist in cooling the cat, you can gently wipe its paw pads and belly with alcohol, while ensuring the cat stays warm. For a detailed guide on how to determine if a cat has a fever, click here: How to Judge If a Cat Has a Fever.
It is essential to treat a cat's cold promptly to avoid complications. Often, the owner's negligence can lead to the cat's cold progressing and causing a myriad of complications. For instance, a common cold can escalate into a viral infection, which can then lead to numerous secondary infections, further weakening the cat's health.