When your kitty is under the weather, she can't exactly ask for a pain reliever or an ice pack to help her feel better, so you may find yourself asking, "does my cat have a fever? And, how can I tell if she does?" Learn how to identify the symptoms, causes and treatment related to your cat's fever.
There are tell-tale signs when humans have a fever, and these same symptoms also are visible in kitties, such as lack of appetite, weakness or lethargy, shivering, dehydration or ears that are warm to the touch. In addition to a rapid heart rate and/or increased respiratory rate, cats may exhibit other symptoms specific to the illness that may be causing the high fever, depending on what ailment is troubling your feline friend.
The most conclusive way to determine if your cat has a fever is to take her temperature. A cat's normal body temperature is between 99.5 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. A temperature above this range may indicate a fever.
Ear thermometers may be easier and more convenient for pet parents, but as Petcha explains, "The best and most economical way for you to take your cat's temperature is by using a pediatric rectal glass or digital thermometer. Taking your cat's temperature usually takes two people: one to restrain the cat and the other to insert the thermometer." Be sure to lubricate the thermometer with petroleum jelly and leave in for at least two minutes to get the most accurate result. Be sure to not stick a rectal thermometer in too far as the rectal tissue is sensitive and can cause damage to your cat. Also, never use a mercury thermometer on your cat because if the thermometer breaks it can be very harmful for your cat's health and life.
Although not the most appealing or comfortable method, taking the rectal temperature is the best way to answer the question of whether or not your cat has a fever. If you are uncomfortable taking your cat's temperature, contact your veterinarian right away so you can take her in for an appointment and have her temperature taken by a professional. It is also important to bring in your cat's vaccination record to help your veterinarian get the best record of any other illness that your cat may not have been vaccinated against to help narrow down what is causing your cat's fever.
Once you determine your cat has a fever (or, pyrexia, as it's known in medical terms), your vet will determine whether further testing is required to determine the cause. Knowing the cat's health history will be of great help. If you have to bring your cat to an after-hours veterinary office instead of her regular doctor, be sure to bring documentation of her history, especially a list of medications, as sometimes cats can have a bad reaction to certain drugs.
Similar to fevers in humans, there is a wide range of possible causes for fever in cats, the most common of which is a bacterial infection. Other possibilities include immune system or inflammatory issues, exposure to toxins, a disorder or a disease. It's also possible that fever in cats is caused by an unknown problem, at which point you and your vet can discuss the next steps.
Along with rest and hydration, fevers in cats typically are treated with antibiotics. As with taking your cat's temperature, getting your cat to take medication may not be easy, but it's important. If she spits out her pill or won't eat the cat food in which you've hidden it, VCA Hospitals provides great tips for giving pills to a feisty cat. One method includes wrapping her in a towel for comfort and security. It's a good idea to employ a helper to assist with this challenging job.
In some instances, your vet can provide you with a liquid medication, which is easier to administer.
It's not easy to watch your fur baby suffer from a fever, but in addition to following your vet's instructions for medical care, there are things you can do to catch an illness before it progresses. Performing regular cat maintenance (brushing her teeth, clipping her claws) and check-ups (look at her ears, monitor her eating and drinking habits) provides you with a great baseline for your kitty's health.
And don't forget to smother her with snuggles and cuddles. A little love goes a long way to help your kitty get well soon!
Christine O'Brien is a writer, mom, and long-time cat parent whose two Russian Blues rule the house. Her work also appears in Care.com, What to Expect, and Fit Pregnancy, where she writes about pets, pregnancy, and family life. Find and follow her on Instagram and Twitter @brovelliobrien.
Nutritional support that encourages eating for pets recovering from surgery, illness or injury
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Supports energy level and beautiful fur in indoor cats
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Delicious braised beef paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Supports healthy immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Supports lean muscle and beautiful coat for adult dogs
For the unique nutritional needs of mature Small & Mini dogs
Supports controlled bone & joint growth. Promotes healthy brain, eye, muscle & immune system development
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous fur
Chicken & Beef recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep adult dogs active and healthy
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Supports energy level & beautiful coat. Helps keep immune system, heart & kidneys healthy
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Supports the health of the whole urinary system with optimal levels of magnesium
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous coat
Fewer calories for less active dogs
Learn the actual reasons why cats have whiskers, why they are important & how many whiskers cats usually have, and if they grow back when they fall out.
Heart diseases can manifest in cats similar to humans, so it is important to catch the warning signs early and consult your vet. Learn more now.
When is a cat considered a senior? Learn how to recognize signs of aging in cats and tips to support your cat's age through better nutrition and care.
Discover interesting information about whether you cat actually understands your words and if it's important to actually talk to your feline friend.
Learn situations which might necessitate rehoming a cat, as well as tips for researching new homes and how to prepare a cat for a new forever home.
Learn helpful info about Feline Infectious Peritonitis, or FIP in cats, including risk factors, common symptoms, treatment options & how to prevent it.
Discover the common reasons why cats don't tend to like water or getting wet, and better learn about their curious fascination with running water.
Read about the journey of three cats with disabilities and how, despite their handicaps, they're just as lovable and capable as any other cat.
Learn more about cat periods, when you can expect them, and what kind of impact your cat's heat cycle has on her body.
Discover what cat chirping sounds like, why cats make that sound and what their body language when they chirp might mean.
Follow these 4 easy steps to help your cat attain its ideal weight and maintain a healthy weight for life.
Learn how your cat communicates with you as well as other cats in the house, and what their cat language might be telling you about them.
If you have a senior-aged cat, learn why its so important to take her to regular vet visits & blood work, especially if she has a health condition.
Learn about common causes, signs & symptoms, and treatment of a cat ear infection, as well as tips for how to prevent them from happening.
Concerned about leaving a cat home alone? Considering if she's a kitten or senior cat and her relationship with you can help you decide how long is safe.
Keep your cat both mentally and physically active with these fun tips for play and exercise even when you're not home.
To provide the best care for your cat, it is important to know as much about them as possible. Read about a cat's specialized anatomy to learn more.
Wonder if cats can see in the dark? Learn about feline night vision, including how their nighttime vision works & how it evolved compared to humans.
Acne in Cats: Common Signs, Treatment & Prevention
You may wonder why your cat loves chewing & eating all kinds of plastic. Find out why she's fascinated by these items and what you can do to discourage it.
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
©2025 Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc. As used herein, denotes registered trademark status in the U.S. only; registration status in other geographies may be different. Your use of this site is subject to the terms of our Legal Statement. About our Ads. Cookie Consent Tool