Fever in cats

Fever is discussed as a rise in body temperature linked to infection or inflammation. Many sources cite a cat range around 38–39.2 °C; stress, site and the thermometer move the number. Do not memorise a home cut-off as a diagnosis.

A reliable reading needs a suitable rectal (or clinic) thermometer and technique. A kitchen thermometer or an ear touch is not enough. If you are unsure, come in.

A wet or dry nose is not a fever test. Ear warmth also changes with the room and the coat.

A high temperature is not always fever (the illness response). A hot car, balcony or closed room can look like heatstroke. You cannot split those at home.

Lethargy, not eating, hiding, shivering or fast breathing mean more than a warm nose. It often overlaps cat not eating.

Paracetamol, ibuprofen, naproxen or children’s fever syrup can severely poison cats. Alcohol wipes and ice baths risk shock. This site does not give doses.

Open-mouth breathing, collapse, a seizure, no food beyond a day, or a dull cat just out of heat: urgency.