How to Know if My Pet Has a Fever: Symptoms and Treatment Advice

Fevers are a common health issue in both humans and pets. For pets, a fever usually indicates that their body is fighting an infection, inflammation, or another underlying health issue. Understanding what a fever in pets means and how to properly address it is crucial for every pet owner.

A fever is considered a body temperature that’s higher than normal. While the normal body temperature for a dog or cat typically ranges between 101°F and 102.5°F (about 38.3°C to 39.2°C), anything above this range is typically considered a fever. Pets may experience fevers due to infections, viruses, injuries, or even stress. Detecting a fever early allows you to take the right actions and get your pet the care they need as quickly as possible.

2. How to Identify the Symptoms of Fever in Pets

Fever in pets can manifest in various ways, and being aware of the signs is the first step in recognizing when your pet may be ill. Common symptoms of fever in pets include:

• Warm Ears or Nose: One of the first signs of a fever in your pet can be a noticeably warm or dry nose and ears, which are usually cool and moist when your pet is healthy.
• Lethargy or Decreased Activity: Pets with a fever may seem unusually tired, sluggish, or less playful than usual. This is often due to the body using extra energy to fight off the underlying cause of the fever.
• Shivering or Trembling: Just like humans, pets may shiver when they have a fever. Shivering is the body’s attempt to regulate its temperature.
• Loss of Appetite: Pets with a fever often experience a loss of appetite and may be less interested in food or treats than usual.
• Warm or Red Gums: If you gently lift your pet’s lips, you may notice that their gums appear warmer or redder than normal when they have a fever.
• Increased Heart Rate or Respiratory Rate: A fever can cause an increase in both heart rate and breathing. You may notice your pet panting or breathing heavily even when at rest.

If you notice any of these signs in your pet, it’s important to take immediate action. The next step is to check their temperature to confirm whether they have a fever.

3. How to Check if Your Pet Has a Fever

To accurately determine if your pet has a fever, you will need to check their body temperature using a thermometer. The best way to take your pet’s temperature is by using a digital rectal thermometer, which provides the most accurate results. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Prepare the Thermometer: Use a digital thermometer that’s designed for pets. Make sure the thermometer is clean and has a lubricating gel or petroleum jelly on the tip to make the process more comfortable for your pet.
2. Calm Your Pet: It’s essential to keep your pet calm and still. You might want to have someone help hold your pet gently while you take their temperature.
3. Insert the Thermometer: Gently lift your pet’s tail and insert the thermometer about 1-2 inches into the rectum. Hold the thermometer in place for about 30 seconds, or until it beeps, indicating that the temperature is taken.
4. Read the Temperature: For dogs and cats, a normal body temperature is between 101°F and 102.5°F (38.3°C to 39.2°C). If the temperature is above this range, your pet likely has a fever and should be evaluated by a vet.

Taking your pet’s temperature at home is a quick and easy way to confirm if they are running a fever, which can help you decide whether to call a vet for further advice or treatment.

4. How to Treat Fever in Pets

If your pet has a fever, there are several steps you can take to help reduce their temperature and ensure they stay comfortable:

• Keep Them Hydrated: Offer your pet fresh water frequently to keep them hydrated. Dehydration can make fever symptoms worse.
• Provide a Cool Environment: Keep your pet in a cool, quiet room away from direct sunlight and extreme heat. You can use a fan or cool, damp cloths to gently lower their body temperature.
• Monitor Their Temperature: Keep checking their temperature every few hours to track any changes and determine whether their condition is improving.
• Seek Veterinary Care: If your pet’s fever persists for more than a day or they show signs of more serious illness (e.g., difficulty breathing, vomiting, or severe lethargy), contact your vet for advice and treatment.

Never administer human fever medication to your pet, as it can be toxic. Always consult your vet for the appropriate course of treatment.

5. Real-Life Stories: How Pet Owners Handled Fever

Many pet owners have shared their experiences of dealing with a pet fever. For example, Julia, a dog owner, found her Labrador acting unusually lethargic and noticed his nose was warm. After taking his temperature, she found he had a slight fever. She made sure he stayed hydrated, kept him cool, and monitored him closely, and within 24 hours, he was back to his energetic self.

Similarly, Mark, a cat owner, noticed that his cat, Bella, was shivering and not eating. He took her temperature and confirmed she had a fever. Mark took Bella to the vet, where she was diagnosed with a mild viral infection, and after some medication and rest, Bella recovered fully.

These stories highlight the importance of monitoring your pet’s health and recognizing fever symptoms early to ensure quick recovery.

6. Where to Buy Products for Treating Pet Fever

If you're looking for products to help care for your pet during a fever, visit Hidden Brook Veterinary. They offer a variety of health care products, including hydration solutions, cooling mats, and other pet care supplies that can assist with fever management and overall well-being. Shop today to ensure your pet’s comfort and health during any illness.