What to do if my cat has a hot body? - briefly
If your cat's body is hot, it may be experiencing heat stress or overheating. Quickly move it to a cooler location, and offer water to help regulate its temperature.
What to do if my cat has a hot body? - in detail
If your cat's body is unusually warm, it could indicate an underlying health issue that requires prompt attention. Here are the steps you should take:
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Check the Environment: Ensure that the cat hasn't been exposed to high temperatures or direct sunlight for extended periods. Move the cat to a cooler location if necessary.
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Monitor Vital Signs: Gently place your hand on the cat's side, just behind the elbow. The normal body temperature for cats ranges from 100.5°F to 102.5°F (38°C to 39.2°C). If it's significantly higher, this is a sign of fever or heat stress.
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Look for Other Symptoms: Fever can accompany other symptoms such as lethargy, loss of appetite, panting, or rapid heart rate. Observe your cat closely for any of these signs.
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Hydrate the Cat: Ensure your cat has access to plenty of fresh, cool water. You can also offer ice chips to help cool them down. However, do not force water into their mouth as this could lead to aspiration pneumonia.
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Cool the Cat Gently: If the cat is overheated, you can help lower its body temperature by wrapping it in a damp towel or placing it on a cool surface like a tile floor. Avoid using cold water or ice packs directly on the skin as this can cause shock.
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Contact Your Veterinarian: If your cat's temperature remains high, or if you notice other concerning symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately. They may advise you to bring your cat in for a check-up or provide guidance over the phone.
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Avoid Human Medications: Never give your cat human medications, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, without explicit instruction from your vet. These can be toxic to cats and cause serious health issues.
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Prevent Overheating in the Future: Ensure your cat has access to shaded areas and cool surfaces during hot weather. Provide plenty of water and consider using a cat-safe cooling mat or pad.