Did you know your cat might show cat fever symptoms and you won’t even know? Yes, that’s true because cats are hideous creatures, like your introverted friend. They love hiding their pains, problems, and even traumas.

While you can’t do anything about your introverted friend, you can help your cat in pain. Fever in cats is important to help them fight disease. But, there is also a chance that your cat may have an ongoing fever due to underlying health problems.

If you’re:

• Unsure about cat fever symptoms

• Do not know what to do if your cat has fever

Then this blog is for you. Read on.

It is advised that you check your cat's temperature for fever. Normal body temperature in cats ranges from 100.4º to 102.5º Fahrenheit.

But if your cat has a temperature of 102.5º F then it means they have a fever. But that’s not all. If your cat has a body temperature of more than 106º F then run to the vet as this can cause serious damage to your cat’s organs.

An above-normal temperature in cats is called hyperthermia. Abnormal hyperthermia can come from being in a warm place. Or it can come from doing more than usual muscle activity. If the temperature rise is right after being in a warm place or muscle activity then there’s no issue.

But, fever is regulated by hyperthermia. It means the temperature is high without any movement or being in a warm place. A fever that runs for more than a few days without any reason is called a fever of unknown origin (FUO).

But if you’re wondering, “How do I check if my cat has a fever” then it all comes down to checking their temperature.

Remember the basics of cat body temperature above.

Below is how you can check your cat’s temperature at home by following this step-by-step method:

1. Take a digital thermometer. But if you want an even more accurate reading then you can use a veterinary thermometer. This is also called a rectal thermometer.

2. If you’re using the digital thermometer then aim it at your cat’s ears.

3. If you’re using a rectal thermometer, apply petroleum jelly to it to lubricate it.

4. After lubricating it properly, insert the thermometer into your cat’s rectum.

5. Make sure you do not go too far as it can hurt your cat’s delicate rectual tissues.

6. Leave the thermometer in the rectum for 2 minutes to get an accurate reading.

7. Take the thermometer out, and wipe it clean with a towel or a sanitizer.

8. Read the temperature.

If the temperature is above 102.5º F, then it means fever. You might be wondering, “What caused it?” “why does my cat have a fever?”.

Let’s find answers to your questions right away:

Fevers in cats can happen when their immune system gets activated. To speak in nerdy language, fever occurs when pyrogen releases substances from the white blood cells. It's called interleukin-1, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor.

These substances change the cat’s body temperature within the brain. This leads to an increase in the temperature.

In simple language, cats may get a fever due to any of the reasons mentioned below:

• Bacterial, fungal, or viral infection

• A tumor

• Trauma

• Injury

• Lupus

• Certain medications

Indoor cats are not at risk here since they do not get exposed to any of these factors. But outdoor cats are regularly exposed to these factors which can give them fever.

If your cat is suffering from fever, then they’ll show any of the signs mentioned below:

• Avoid Food: Your cat avoids food or has a lack of appetite.

• Depression: Your cat doesn’t seem happy like they always are. Instead, they’re isolated or depressed.

• Hiding: Your cat is hiding in their comfort zone more than usual.

• Shivering: Your cat may feel cold due to fever that’s why they’re shivering.

• Warm Ears and Paws: Their paws and ears are warm.

• Rapid Heart Rate: This is one of the most common symptoms of fever. Your cat has a rapid heartbeat.

• Dehydration: Your cat is drinking less water than usual, which has led to dehydration.

• Vomiting: Your cat is not able to digest food, hence they’re vomiting more.

If any of these symptoms are present in your cat. Along with this they also have a high temperature, then you need to get serious.

First of all, stop all human meds. Many cat owners make this mistake, and it might even kill their cat. This is giving human meds to the cat. A cat is a cat, a human is a human. Both bodies are different and they need different treatments.

Give your cat plenty of water as they’re struggling with dehydration. Make sure you give them easy-to-digest food. And make them sit in a comfortable place. If the cat fever lasts for more than 24 hours and is over 106º F then, get to your vet immediately they will give them a cat fever medicine. 

Firstly, the vet will do a full body examination of your cat to find out the root cause of the fever. In some cases, the cause might not be apparent for no reason, this is called a fever of unknown origin.

If your cat has serious dehydration then the vet with put it on intravenous fluids to make it feel better and fight illness.

Here’s one thing you have to remember at all costs: Do not give your cat acetaminophen for fever. As it is very toxic and fatal to cats.

The vet may also do tests like:

• Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)

• Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)

• Biochemistry panel for abnormal organ function

• Fecal examinations

• Urinalysis for urinary tract infection and kidney function

• Complete blood count for infection or inflammation

These tests are done to find out the root cause of fever in cats.

Cat fever symptoms might feel overwhelming, but understanding the signs and taking the right steps can make a huge difference. From recognizing symptoms like warm ears, shivering, and lethargy to learning how to check their temperature at home, you now have the tools to make sure your cat gets the attention they need.

Always prioritize hydration, comfort, and easy-to-digest food when your cat isn’t feeling well. If the fever persists or your cat's body temperature exceeds 106º F, don’t hesitate to consult your vet. Share this blog with other cat owners to help them care for their cats when they're unwell.

The easiest way to tell if your cat has a fever is by checking their body temperature. A cat’s normal body temperature ranges from 100.4º to 102.5º Fahrenheit. If their temperature goes above 102.5º F, that’s a sign of fever. You might also notice symptoms like warm ears and paws, shivering, rapid heart rate, or even hiding in unusual places.

First, make sure your cat stays hydrated by offering plenty of water. Give them easy-to-digest food and let them rest in a comfortable spot. Never give them human medicine, it’s dangerous and could be fatal. If the fever lasts more than 24 hours or their temperature is above 106º F, it’s time to rush to the vet. Or give them a cat medicine for fever.

Sometimes, yes! If the fever is mild and caused by a minor issue, your cat’s immune system may fight it off on its own. However, if the fever persists or your cat shows severe symptoms like vomiting, dehydration, or loss of appetite, they’ll need veterinary care.

If you’re talking about "cat scratch fever" (caused by Bartonella henselae bacteria), humans can get it from a cat scratch or bite. Symptoms include fever, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue. While it’s usually mild, it’s always good to consult a doctor if you suspect you’ve been infected.

In most cases, cat scratch fever in humans clears up on its own. Rest and staying hydrated can help your body recover faster. But if symptoms worsen like severe fever, swelling, or pain you should see a doctor for further treatment.

A cat with a fever may show these signs:

• Warm ears and paws

• Lack of appetite

• Lethargy or depression

• Shivering

• Rapid heart rate

• Dehydration

• Vomiting.

If your cat also has a temperature above 102.5º F, it’s time to get serious.

Early signs include subtle changes in behavior like loss of appetite, hiding more than usual, or seeming tired and sluggish. You might also notice warm ears or paws and slight shivering before the fever becomes apparent.

The key is to check their body temperature. If it’s above 102.5º F, it’s a fever. Other symptoms like lethargy, warm ears, and shivering are common with fever but can also overlap with other illnesses. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to consult your vet for a proper diagnosis.