Cat's Bathing Leads to Fever: What to Do?

Cat Fever Treatment Methods

The treatment for a cat with a fever is based on the underlying diagnosis and the severity of the fever. Mild fevers may not require treatment, as they can actually help cats fight off invaders like bacteria or viruses.

In cases where a diagnosis cannot be made based on the pet's history and physical examination, veterinarians often try a course of antibiotics before conducting diagnostic tests. For temperatures ranging from 104.5 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit, veterinarians will initially recommend medication to reduce the fever. Ketoprofen is commonly used for treating feline fevers. Common antibiotics include amoxicillin, ampicillin, cefalexin, and doxycycline.

If the fever persists or recurs after antibiotic treatment, additional diagnostic tests are recommended.

Once the cause of the fever is identified, treatment is tailored to address the specific cause.

Home Care Methods for Cat Fever

For mild fevers in cats, which are below 104.5 degrees Fahrenheit, you can monitor your pet at home, as they may recover on their own. Ensure your pet continues to eat and drink. Measure your pet's temperature once or twice a day. If the temperature rises above 104.5 degrees Fahrenheit, you should contact a veterinarian immediately.

Additionally, be vigilant for other signs of infection, such as abscesses, skin lumps, hematuria or difficulty urinating, sneezing, or difficulty breathing. Also, if your cat shows symptoms like loss of appetite or excessive sleepiness, seek treatment promptly.

How to Prevent Cat Colds and Fever

Preventing cat colds involves not bathing your cat too frequently and ensuring that their fur is completely dry if they do need a bath. Avoid letting your cat sleep on cold floors, and keep them out of airconditioned rooms during the summer.

However, many causes of cat fevers are not preventable and are related to infections. Maintain cleanliness in your pet's environment, keep your cat away from sick animals, and reduce the risk of infection and fever.

Regarding the question of whether a cat with a fever is just suffering from a cold, if it's just a common cold, the situation is not severe. However, if it leads to a high fever, it's advisable to seek immediate veterinary care or consult with an online pet doctor.