The normal body temperature of cats is generally higher than that of humans. It is difficult for owners to know whether a cat has a fever by touching it. The most direct way to know whether a cat has a fever is to detect the heat using an ordinary or pet-specific heat probe. Pet-specific electronic heat probes can be purchased at veterinary clinics or pet supply stores. When detecting heat, you need to use anal probing, that is, insert a heat probe into the buttocks to detect heat.

A cat’s body temperature exceeding 39.3 degrees means fever

The normal body temperature of a cat is between 38 and 39.3 degrees. If the cat’s body temperature exceeds 39.3 degrees, it means that the cat is having a fever. In addition to body temperature, when a cat has a fever, it may be accompanied by some behavioral symptoms, including:

decreased appetite

Cats may lose interest in food and refuse normal meals

altered mental status

Cats with fever may exhibit lazy, lethargic, or physically tired behaviors.

Careful observation by the owner is very important to the health of the pet

The above symptoms are not only caused by fever, but may also be related to other health problems. If you suspect your cat has a fever, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian for a detailed examination. The veterinarian can conduct a detailed physical examination, take the temperature, and determine whether there is a fever or other health problem based on the cat’s symptoms and necessary examinations before providing appropriate treatment.
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