How to measure a cat's temperature with a regular thermometer. How to take a cat's temperature? How to determine temperature without using a thermometer
Body temperature is one of the important indicators of the state of the body in both humans and animals. But in cats normal temperature higher than a human’s, so inexperienced owners may be seriously scared, deciding that their furry pet has a fever. To avoid panicking for no reason, learn more about signs of illness in cats, including fever, in advance. And it’s imperative - how to measure a cat’s temperature - otherwise how will you know that the animal is sick? The temperature of cats is measured at home; for this it is not necessary to subject them to additional stress and take them to the veterinary clinic only to measure the cat’s temperature with a thermometer.
By the way, you can do without a thermometer and measure your cat’s temperature in other ways, simple and accessible, although less accurate. They will not allow you to know exactly what the cat’s temperature is, but they will let you know about problems with its health. But knowing how to measure the temperature of cats with a thermometer and without a thermometer, you can surely and without errors determine whether the cat is healthy. And, if necessary, take action in time and contact a veterinarian. We, for our part, have already managed to consult with such a specialist and find out first-hand how exactly to measure a cat’s temperature.
What is the cat's temperature? Normal temperature in Sphynx and other cat breeds
Forget the usual numbers 36.6 when we're talking about about the cat. More precisely, if a cat has a temperature of 36.6, it means that she is experiencing extreme degree hypothermia and/or decline vitality. Because normal body temperature in cats is considered to be from 38°C to 39°C, depending on the age and condition of the animal. For example, kittens have an even higher temperature: 38.5-39.5 °C, especially if they actively run and play.
But breed has almost no effect on a cat’s body temperature! The common belief that Sphynxes, Rexes and other extremely short-haired cat breeds have a hotter body is just an illusion. To the touch, these animals really seem “hotter” than Persians and other fluffy animals, because their fur does not soften the temperature difference between their body and the body of the owner. But the actual temperature is approximately the same for everyone healthy cats. It increases only in special cases:
- Hot weather. Thermoregulation of cats works on the same principle as in all warm-blooded organisms. If the air is hot, then the cat's body heats up to adapt to the environment.
- Evening time. Closer to the night, the body temperature is actually slightly higher than in the morning after waking up. But not by much: about 0.3-0.5 degrees.
- Pregnancy. Pregnant cats have a slightly higher body temperature. This is normal if all other health indicators are normal.
- Taking certain medications and foods, in particular, affecting the brain thermoregulation centers. Or much simpler: if the kitten has eaten too much.
- Disease- the most common and dangerous reason temperature rise. The disease may carry infectious nature and demand speedy medical care.
How to measure a cat's body temperature? Thermometer for cats
The misperception of hairless cats' body temperature as elevated is not just a misunderstanding. Such a mistake can cost your pet’s health, and you a lot of hassle with its treatment. A responsible owner knows how to check if a cat's temperature has risen and always has veterinary medicine cabinet such devices:
- Rectal thermometer for cats no different from a similar device for children. This electronic device works quickly, does not require perseverance from the patient and gives the most accurate readings(compared to other types of thermometers). You can’t buy a rectal thermometer in every pharmacy, and it’s not cheap.
- Electronic universal thermometer Can replace a rectal thermometer and is often used to measure the temperature of pets. Its readings are quite accurate, but to obtain them you will have to hold the cat in a stationary position with the sensor in anus at least 1-2 minutes. You can measure the cat’s temperature with an electronic thermometer from your first aid kit, but be sure to disinfect it afterwards, or even better, get a separate thermometer for the cat.
- Universal mercury thermometer If it is suitable for animals, it is very conditional. Such a thermometer is better than nothing if you urgently need to measure your cat’s temperature. But keep in mind that it will give readings no earlier than in 5-6 minutes, and that it is very fragile, so for safety reasons you will have to hold the cat especially tightly.
How to take a cat's temperature rectally?
Temperatures inside and on the surface of a cat's body vary greatly. Therefore, measuring a cat’s body temperature under the arms or in the mouth, like a human, is useless. Instead, cats (and other animals) have their rectal temperature taken. On the one hand, such measurements are good for their accuracy. On the other hand, it requires considerable skill to measure a cat's rectal temperature:
- Try to choose a time when the cat is sleeping and/or in a calm mood.
- Use a thermometer with a clean, preferably sterile probe to avoid injuring or infecting your pet while taking the temperature.
- You may need the help of a second person - this depends on the nature of the animal and its size (whether you can hold it alone).
- Carefully but tightly wrap the cat in a blanket or blanket, leaving only the head (for breathing) and butt outside. The main thing is to fix all the paws.
- Lubricate the thermometer sensor with oil or Vaseline. This is enough for sliding; the cat does not need to be lubricated.
- Lift the cat's tail (she will probably try to lower it and press it to her body) and carefully and slowly insert the thermometer into the anus.
- Do not immerse the sensor deeply to avoid causing pain to the animal. A depth of 0.5-0.7 cm is sufficient. After insertion, tilt the thermometer slightly so that its tip touches the wall of the rectum.
- To make inserting the thermometer easier, rotate it slightly to the right and left, as if using smooth screwing movements.
- When using an electronic thermometer, wait for the beep and remove the sensor.
- The mercury thermometer will have to be kept in the cat's rectum for at least 3-4 minutes.
How to take a cat's temperature without a thermometer?
After using the thermometer to measure rectal temperature For a cat, immediately disinfect the device. For any type of thermometer, it is enough to wipe the tip with alcohol, sterillium or a similar antiseptic. But what if there is no thermometer at hand at all, or the cat does not allow it to be used to measure temperature? Is it possible to measure a cat's temperature without a thermometer?
- The nose is the main indicator of the health status of all animals, incl. and cats. Normally it should be cool and moist. Dry and hot nose cats indicate an increase in body temperature.
- You can focus on the dryness and temperature of the nose only when the animal is awake and not keen on playing, hunting, etc. active activities. During sleep, a cat’s nose may be dry, but after running and jumping, it may be warm.
- Chills, trembling in the body, when the air temperature in the room is normal room temperature, is a sign of ill health and that the cat’s body temperature has apparently jumped.
- When the temperature rises, the cat behaves inappropriately: hides from people, takes a tense position, does not lie down and sits on all four legs, and/or refuses food and water.
- If your cat has a fever, the third eyelid becomes visible while awake. IN in good condition it is not noticeable and covers eyeball only during sleep.
Every cat owner sooner or later faces the problem of measuring their body temperature. for a pet. But this process can drive many of us into a dead end. How to correctly measure a cat’s temperature, what thermometer to use for this, these questions immediately arise in our heads. Today we will try to answer these and other questions regarding the animal’s elevated temperature and the process of measuring it.
In what cases is temperature measurement necessary?
Most people have an established myth that the temperature of cats can be judged by their nose. If it’s damp and cold, then everything is fine, but if it’s the opposite, it means the temperature is elevated. This principle works well with dogs, but not with cats. In the cat family, dry nose can occur during the hot season and after active games, malfunction of the glands or old age. So it’s impossible to measure a cat’s temperature without a thermometer. The only thing that can be done in such a situation is to observe the animal and see if there are any signs of a change in temperature.
These include:
- excessive thirst;
- dilated pupils;
- vomiting and diarrhea;
- partial or complete failure from food;
- fear of people;
- rapid breathing and heart rate;
- chills;
- Ears and fur become hot.
The presence of these symptoms indicates that your animal has a high/low temperature.
What temperature is considered normal?
The limits of normal body temperature are individual for each animal. The readings may also be influenced by factors such as:
- Times of Day. In the morning and evening there may be deviations in one direction or another by 0.5 0 C.
- state of wakefulness. During sleep, the temperature can drop to 37 0 C.
- pregnancy. Before giving birth in cats, readings may drop by 1 0 C.
But the generally accepted indications of normal temperature are:
- For adult cat 38-39 0 C
- for a kitten 38.5 – 39.5 0 C.
- conditionally normal for everyone for short periods of 37.5-39.5 0 C.
- the temperature at which immediate intervention is necessary is below 37 0 C and above 40 0 C.
Determining temperature without a thermometer will not give you necessary information. To obtain accurate data you will have to use a thermometer.
For “hairless” breeds, temperature standards are the same as for all breeds. But their bodies are always warm to the touch, which immediately causes misguided panic in their owners.
Choosing a Thermometer
From the right choice The thermometer depends on the speed and accuracy of measurements. The most accessible is a regular mercury thermometer; everyone has one at home. But considering that you can only measure a cat’s temperature rectally, a mercury thermometer, in addition to becoming dangerous, will also cause the animal painful sensations. At the most inopportune moment, a cat can break free and break the thermometer, and the spilled mercury already poses a danger to all household members. Also, the measurement procedure will last 6-10 minutes, instead of 2-3 with an electronic thermometer.
It is best to purchase a special veterinary thermometer, which takes into account all the features of the temperature measurement process. Thus, the measurement sensor is located at its very tip, and there is no need for deep dive thermometer, and its size is most comfortable for measuring the temperature of cats.
A sound signal will notify you when the temperature measurement is completed. But not everyone can afford such a thermometer and it is intended only for rectal use. You will not be able to take your child’s temperature under the armpit. A compromise option could be an electronic thermometer. His thin nose will not cause unnecessary pain
, and will not break down at the most crucial moment. The measurement process itself will take a couple of minutes, and you will know when the procedure is completed by a sound signal. When choosing this type of thermometer, you should pay attention to its battery socket. If you do not find this, it means that the thermometer does not have the ability to replace the battery, and it is designed for a certain number of temperature measurements. The measurement error with such a thermometer is in the range of 0.1-0.5 0 C.
Measurement process
Taking a cat's temperature at home is quite problematic. The animal will zealously resist – struggling, scratching and screaming shrilly. Even if a couple of minutes ago the cat was lying and barely breathing, as soon as you start measuring its temperature, it will immediately perk up. The cat is not so much in pain as scared and unpleasant.
To measure a cat's temperature you will need 2 people, one holding it, the other measuring it. Before taking measurements, you can trim your cat's claws to avoid unnecessary blood.
- In order to measure the temperature you need to go through several steps:
- Select a position. It’s good if you can wrap the cat in a blanket or sheet, leaving access to its anus. If it doesn’t work out, then someone will have to hold the paws. When taking the temperature, the cat should stand or lie on its side. In the latter case, you need to make sure that she does not curl up into a ball or tuck her tail between her legs. The accuracy of the measurement depends on the correct position.
- Disinfection of the thermometer. This is very important condition, a solution of chlorhexidine or regular alcohol is good for this. Soak a cotton pad or cotton pad in it and wipe the tip. Then wipe dry and lubricate the same tip with greasy cream or Vaseline.
- Measurement process. Lift the cat’s tail and, using circular movements, seem to “screw” the tip of the thermometer into the cat’s body by 2-3 cm. Wait for the sound signal, carefully remove the thermometer and caress the animal, because it has endured such an unpleasant process.
- Cleaning the thermometer. After the animal is released and all the troubles are behind you, thoroughly wash the thermometer with soap and wipe it again with alcohol.
Based on the obtained thermometer readings, conclusions can be drawn.
Causes of high/low temperature
If, after measuring your temperature, you notice that the readings are below normal, then this may indicate:
- stress or shock;
- consequences of anesthesia;
- hypothermia;
- injury;
- the presence of cardiovascular or nervous disease.
Indicators above the normal limit indicate:
- possible reaction to taking the medication (often this possibility is described in side effects medication or your doctor should warn you about it);
- poisoning;
- oncology;
- infectious disease;
- metabolic disease;
- endocrine disease.
If the temperature rises/falls briefly and returns to normal within 10-12 hours, then there is no need to panic; this may be a consequence of stress or overexertion of the cat. It is advisable to monitor the dynamics of temperature changes every hour or two. But if the temperature persists throughout the whole day and does not drop at all, then you should immediately consult a doctor. The veterinary clinic will conduct necessary tests, they will establish the root cause of the elevated temperature and then prescribe a course of treatment. You should never leave treatment to chance; such an attitude can lead to disastrous results.
Measuring the kitten's temperature is especially important, because... if its body temperature is low, the cat may abandon the kitten. She will give him milk, but will stop licking the kitten, without stimulating it normal work intestines. To avoid this, the kitten needs proper care; it needs to be constantly in a warm room.
If your cat has a high fever and there is no way to go to the veterinary clinic, then you can give her a crushed analgin tablet dissolved in milk. For a kitten, half or even a quarter will be enough regular tablet. You also need to remember about drinking, constantly give your cat milk. When you decide to go on a trip and the temperature is 40 0 C or higher, you need to wrap the cat in a damp towel or take ice with you.
A high temperature in most cases indicates the presence of an infection. And it’s better not to call a doctor at home, but to go straight to the clinic for tests.
Don't be afraid to measure your cat's temperature if you notice signs of an increase/decrease in it. Remember that your pet’s health depends only on you and your attention.
Vet
There are a number of situations when you need to measure your cat's body temperature. In this case, it is important to know how you can correctly and accurately check this indicator at home. While cats are good at hiding their problems, there are a number of symptoms that can indicate that the animal is not feeling well, for example, loss of appetite, lethargy, or vomiting. A good knowledge of the cat’s character and its usual behavior will easily allow you to identify suspicious deviations from the norm. At the same time, the only accurate way to check the temperature of a sick pet is to use a thermometer. Once you have taken an accurate temperature, you can discuss your cat's health with your veterinarian.
Steps
Measuring temperature with a rectal thermometer
- Digital thermometers allow you to measure temperature in less time, which makes the procedure less unpleasant for the animal.
- Mercury thermometers are made of glass. You will have to take many precautions to successfully measure the temperature of a struggling cat.
- Regardless of the type of thermometer you choose, you should be sure to label it as a special cat thermometer so that no one accidentally takes it by mistake to measure their own temperature.
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Find a helper. Naturally, the cat will not be happy that some kind of foreign object. Most likely, the cat will start to struggle and try to escape; he may even accidentally scratch you. Therefore, you will have to ask someone to hold the cat to secure it in a stationary position.
Wrap your cat in a blanket or towel. The easiest way to immobilize your cat is to use a small blanket or towel. A swaddled animal is easier to control and keep still.
- To swaddle your cat, simply wrap the blanket around him, leaving his tail and butt sticking out.
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Put on thick ones leather gloves to grab the cat by the scruff of the neck. Many veterinarians prefer to swaddle cats to take their temperature, but if you don't want to wrap your cat in a blanket, you can have an assistant simply hold the animal. This person should wear thick leather gloves to protect themselves from accidental bites and scratches. Then he should grab the cat by the scruff - the area of the neck between the head and shoulder blades. Gently grasping the skin in this area allows for the best control of the cat's head.
- Since the cat usually carries kittens by the scruff of the neck, this grip also has some calming effect on the animal.
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Secure your pet's body. After the assistant grabs the cat by the scruff, he needs to fix the animal’s body, pressing it with his free hand to own body. Make sure your cat's butt is facing outward to make it easier for you to get to her with the thermometer.
- For ease of explanation the right approach To fix the cat's body, imagine that you are grasping a soccer ball with one hand.
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Prepare a thermometer. When using a mercury thermometer, you must first shake it off with sharp flicks of your wrist. The thermometer should be shaken to a mercury reading of 35.5°C. Regardless of the type of rectal thermometer, it also needs to be lubricated so that the temperature measurement procedure is not so unpleasant for your pet.
- You can use simple Vaseline as a lubricant for these purposes.
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Insert the thermometer into the anus. Lift your cat's tail and insert the rectal thermometer about an inch into his rectum. Don't try too hard.
Wait the required amount of time. The digital thermometer will beep as soon as the temperature measurement is completed. If using a mercury thermometer, you will need to wait two minutes.
Remove the thermometer and check the temperature. After two minutes or after the thermometer beeps, it can be removed. A digital thermometer will allow you to easily read the temperature, while a mercury thermometer will have to be rotated at a certain angle to view the mercury column and mark the corresponding value on the thermometer scale. Temperature in mercury thermometer determined by highest point mercury column.
Release the cat. The cat will struggle and try to escape as quickly as possible. Carefully release the animal's scruff or unwrap it so that the cat does not scratch either you or your helper.
Compare the temperature value with the permissible norm. For temperature measured rectally, values in the range of 37.8-39.2°C are considered normal. As with humans, slight deviations from the specified norm are not necessarily a cause for concern. However, if your cat's temperature is below 37.2°C or above 40°C, you should contact your veterinarian immediately.
- Remember that normal value temperature does not always confirm that your cat is healthy and not injured. If your pet continues to behave in an unusual way or you have additional reasons If you suspect he has a disease or injury, it is best to contact a veterinarian.
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Measuring temperature with an ear thermometer
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Buy a digital ear thermometer. There are pros and cons to using an ear thermometer. Such a device is easier to use for especially shy cats, which strongly resist measuring temperature rectally. However, it is quite difficult to insert such a thermometer into the ear canal correctly, so it is not always possible to obtain accurate temperature measurement results.
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Buy a rectal thermometer. A cat's temperature can be measured with either a rectal thermometer or an ear thermometer. Rectal thermometers are considered the most accurate. As for their types, you have a choice between digital and mercury rectal thermometers.
A certain body temperature is necessary to maintain normal life every warm-blooded creature. Increased or decreased indicators usually indicate disturbances in the functioning of the body, which can lead to serious problems with health. Representatives of the cat family are no exception - in case of deviations from the norm, the condition of the animal can only be assessed by determining temperature indicators. How do you take a cat's temperature, and what should you do if you have a fever or hypothermia?
Normally, the temperature in cats is slightly higher than in people - it varies from 37.7 to 39.1 degrees, and in newborn kittens it can rise to 39.5 degrees, as in pregnant females. The reasons for changes in numbers can be pathological and non-pathological - the first are associated with all sorts of: most often these are infections and inflammatory processes, but sometimes an increase in temperature is observed with malignant tumors, neurological diseases, autoimmune and hormonal disorders. In number non-pathological reasons includes certain conditions environment and other aspects that may affect the body's thermoregulatory system.
- Hypothermia or overheating. Prolonged exposure to open sun, too hot a room or frost causes changes in temperature indicators.
- Daily temperature changes. In the evening, the temperature of pets is several tenths of a degree higher than in the morning.
- Binge eating. A large number of fatty foods causes a slight increase in numbers, especially in kittens.
- Pregnancy. Your temperature is 1-1.5 degrees above normal, and a few days before birth it drops significantly.
- Nervous stress or physical activity. Small increase indicators can be observed after active games or emotional experiences.
- Sterilization. After or sterilization of cats, they may experience changes in temperature due to stress, exposure to anesthesia, medicines or decrease in pressure. The indicators should return to normal within several hours, a maximum of 24 hours - prolonged hypothermia or fever indicates postoperative complications requiring immediate medical intervention.
In other cases, a serious change in the numbers on the thermometer can be a cause for concern, especially if the increase or decrease is accompanied by a deterioration in well-being and other alarming symptoms.
For reference! Breed cats and other hairless or short-haired cats always seem hotter than pets with thick hair, but this does not mean they have a fever. The fact is that the presence of wool compensates for the difference between the temperature of the environment and the body, and in its absence the skin simply seems to be on fire. Assess the condition of hairless cats under any alarming symptoms you need to use a thermometer.
How to detect a fever in a cat
You can suspect an increase or decrease in temperature based on a number of signs, which include:
- ears, nose and skin that are hot or too cold to the touch;
- chills, severe body tremors;
- refusal to eat, nausea, vomiting;
- changes in behavior, aggression or desire to hide in a dark corner;
- increased heart rate, increased breathing;
- strong thirst;
- dilated pupils;
Dilated pupils in a cat are one of the signs of a change in temperature in an animal
- absence motor activity, lethargy and drowsiness;
- discharge from the nose, ears and eyes.
Many owners believe that the main sign of a febrile condition is a dry, hot nose, but veterinarians refute this opinion. A warm and dry surface of the nose occurs after sleep or active play, as well as in older individuals, who are characterized by a slowdown in metabolic processes.
A sick cat will hide from people, hide in dark corners, lie motionless and refuse food - this is the way nature tells it to fight the disease. In addition, the pet may often close its eyes, which makes its third eyelid visible, which is normally invisible from the outside.
Important! A severe drop in temperature in cats is more dangerous than a fever - similar condition require immediate medical attention, so your pet should be taken to a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Is it possible to find out the temperature without a thermometer?
It is quite difficult to determine the temperature of a cat without a thermometer - signs that may indicate an increase in temperature (hot nose, prominent third eyelid, decreased appetite and physical activity), are indirect and do not provide an accurate picture of the disease. Based on these signs, one can only suspect a deterioration in the pet’s condition, and the indicators can only be found out with the help of a thermometer.
How to measure a cat's temperature: accurate methods and instruments
The most informative way is to measure indicators using conventional mercury or electronic thermometers, which can be purchased at any pharmacy. Sometimes special veterinary thermometers, infrared or ear thermometers, are used for these purposes. Each of the devices has its own disadvantages and advantages, which should be remembered before carrying out the procedure.
Table 1. Advantages and disadvantages different types thermometers.
| Device type | Advantages | Flaws |
|---|---|---|
| High measurement accuracy, low cost | The safety of the procedure leaves much to be desired - there is a possibility of breaking the device and causing injury to the animal; you need to hold the thermometer for a long time, which will cause serious discomfort to the cat |
Electronic regular with flexible tip | Measurement results are not always accurate | |
Universal digital | Allows you to measure temperature different ways, quickly produces results, safe to use | The accuracy of the indicators is lower than that of mercury thermometer |
Veterinary digital earpiece | The procedure does not take much time and is absolutely safe for the pet. | |
Veterinary digital infrared | Convenient and easy to use, does not cause discomfort to the animal | Low accuracy of indicators, high cost |
For reference! Veterinarians consider ear and infrared devices to be the least accurate, while simple mercury thermometers are the most accurate.
How to measure a cat's temperature: step-by-step instructions
There are several ways to measure a cat's temperature - the algorithm of actions and the complexity of the procedure depend on the device the owner uses, as well as the nature of the pet.
Rectal temperature measurement
The best way to measure a cat's temperature is rectally, that is, by inserting a thermometer into the anus. To obtain accurate indicators, the procedure should be carried out when the pet is in calm state, best during sleep. The algorithm of actions is as follows.
- Wrap the cat in a towel or blanket so that the head and back are visible from the outside - it is important to fix the paws, otherwise the animal will actively resist. If the cat is aggressive or restless, it is better to involve an assistant in the procedure, and also constantly talk to the pet in a calm, gentle voice, calling him by name.
- Disinfect the tip of the thermometer and lubricate it vegetable oil or baby cream, reset the indicators.
- Raise the tail, insert the tip of the device into the anus with screwing movements to a depth of no more than 0.5 cm and slightly tilt it so that it touches the walls of the rectum.
- When measuring temperature using a mercury thermometer, note the time (3-5 minutes), and when using electronic thermometer– wait for the sound signal.
After the procedure, you should once again disinfect the thermometer and treat the cat with its favorite treat to compensate for the effects of stress.
Temperature measurement in the ear canal
In the ear canal, the temperature is measured only with the help of a special thermometer, which has a narrowed tip and is inserted into the ear canal.
- Measurements should be taken while the pet is sitting, holding it so that the claws rest against a hard surface and the head is motionless.
- Disinfect the tip of the thermometer and insert it deep into the cat's ear, continuing to hold its head.
- Wait for the sound signal and evaluate the indicators.
The procedure takes about two minutes and causes less discomfort to the animal, but the error can be up to 0.5 degrees.
Measuring temperature while sleeping
If it is not possible to measure the temperature rectally or in the ear canal, you can use the simplest method - wait until the pet falls asleep, raise the front paw, put the thermometer under the arm and fix it well. This method can only be used in extreme cases, since it is very difficult to obtain accurate indicators. It is especially not recommended for owners of cats with long, thick hair - the hair will not allow a correct assessment of body temperature.
Attention! Regardless of the method of measuring temperature, it is best to evaluate the indicators in dynamics - carry out the procedure once every 2-3 hours. If the readings gradually increase or decrease, you should take your pet to a doctor as soon as possible.
Video - How to measure a cat's temperature
How to help a cat with a fever
Eliminating fever at home is strictly not recommended - some pathologies that cause fever require immediate medical attention, and sometimes surgical intervention. Before the cat is examined by a veterinarian, you can give her half an Analgin tablet, drink a little water, chamomile decoction or special saline solutions to prevent, place wet towels on the neck and hips. It is impossible to give an animal any drugs intended to reduce fever in humans, as they can cause serious harm to the pet’s health.
What to do when the temperature drops
Hypothermia, or low temperature is considered more dangerous condition than a fever, so the cat should be taken to the clinic immediately or a veterinarian called to your home. A temperature of 36 degrees and below is considered a direct threat to the life of a pet - at such indicators it can go into shock or coma. While waiting for medical help, you need to warm the animal - wrap it in a warm blanket, put it on a heating pad, give it water warm water or milk.
If it was not possible to measure your pet’s temperature or the thermometer shows normal numbers, but the animal’s condition is cause for concern, it is recommended to show it to a veterinarian. When it comes to your pet's health, it is better to be vigilant than to ignore symptoms and leave a serious pathology untreated.
If you suspect that your cat is sick, she is lethargic, eats poorly, and moves little, then the first thing to do is determine if her body temperature is elevated. If you haven't done this before, you'll have to learn how to measure a cat's temperature at home. This will also be useful if treatment has already been prescribed and you need to monitor it daily.
How and with what to measure correctly
The only one the right way- this is rectal. Your nose, dry or wet, won't tell you anything.
For this manipulation you will need only one tool - a thermometer.
An electronic one with a thin spout is best. With him, the procedure will be quick and painless.
If you have to take frequent measurements, it is better not to torment the animal again and buy just such a one. For one or two times, a regular mercury thermometer is quite suitable.
How to measure a cat's temperature: step-by-step instructions
1. Wipe the thermometer nose with alcohol and then lubricate with oil or cream
If you use mercury, reset the previous value.
2. Place the cat on its paws and lift its tail
If she resists too much, you can wrap her in a towel and place her sideways on your lap. You may need to keep the animal together.
3. Gently insert the tip of the thermometer into the anus and hold it straight at a depth of approximately 2 cm
If you turn the thermometer slightly, it will go in softer.
Some tolerate the procedure quite calmly, while others categorically object. When resisting, you need to keep your lower back motionless. For example, with your left hand, firmly grab the cat by the withers, and with your right elbow, press down on the hips and bottom part back, holding a thermometer.
4. Take the necessary time
An electronic thermometer often beeps on its own, and this usually takes about 30 seconds (but it’s better to check the instructions). For mercury, it will take at least 7 minutes. As you can see, the time difference is enormous.
It’s unlikely that a cat will let you measure its temperature without resistance, so the longer you hold it, the more likely it is to damage the thermometer. soft fabrics rectum.
5. Take out the thermometer and determine the result
Normal temperature in adult cats is in the range of 38-39°C.
Permissible deviations (for example, due to stress or daily fluctuations) are from 37.8°C to 39.5°C.
For kittens, the normal temperature is slightly higher: from 38.4°C to 39.5°C.
If your pet has a temperature greater than 39.5°C, call your veterinarian urgently, because this may be a sign inflammatory processes, viral or infectious disease.
If the value is below normal, this indicates a weakening of the body, for example, due to hypothermia. 37°C or less is already dangerous for the cat’s health, then you also need to go to the clinic, but even faster.
Once you know how to take your cat's temperature, you can get an approximate estimate of the due date shortly before birth. The day before, the temperature rises by about 1°C.
Health to you and your pets!
