My cat has a fever, what should I do? - briefly
If your cat has a fever, it's important to monitor its temperature and behavior closely. Contact your veterinarian immediately for professional advice and guidance.
My cat has a fever, what should I do? - in detail
If your cat is exhibiting signs of fever, it's essential to take prompt and appropriate action to ensure their well-being. Fever in cats can indicate an underlying infection or illness, so it's crucial not to overlook this symptom. Here are some detailed steps you should follow:
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Monitor Temperature: Cats have a normal body temperature ranging from 100.5°F to 102.5°F (38°C to 39.2°C). Use a rectal thermometer to accurately measure your cat's temperature. If it reads above the normal range, fever is present.
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Check for Additional Symptoms: Fever often accompanies other symptoms such as lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, or unusual behavior. Make note of these signs as they can provide valuable information to your veterinarian.
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Keep Your Cat Hydrated: Ensure your cat drinks plenty of water to prevent dehydration, which can exacerbate the fever. You may need to encourage drinking by offering wet food or flavored water (without added salt or sugar).
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Maintain a Comfortable Environment: Keep your cat in a cool environment, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. However, avoid over-cooling as this can cause shivering, which may increase the body temperature further.
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Contact Your Veterinarian: Promptly contact your veterinarian for advice tailored to your cat's specific situation. They can provide guidance on whether an office visit is necessary or if there are steps you can take at home to alleviate symptoms.
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Do Not Administer Human Medications: Avoid giving your cat human medications like aspirin or ibuprofen, as they can be toxic to cats. Only administer medications prescribed by your veterinarian.
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Prepare for the Veterinary Visit: If advised to bring your cat in, prepare a carrier with comfortable bedding and familiar items to reduce stress during transport. Also, gather any relevant medical history or recent changes in your cat's behavior or environment that could be helpful for diagnosis.
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Follow Up on Treatment: After the veterinary visit, follow all instructions given by the vet regarding medication, diet, and care. Regularly monitor your cat’s temperature and overall health to ensure the fever is resolving as expected.
Taking these steps will help you manage your cat's fever effectively and ensure they receive the appropriate care needed for a swift recovery.