Cats are well known for their ability to keep themselves warm and cool, but what is a cat’s average temperature?
What Are Normal Vital Signs for Cats?
These numbers are just a baseline.
The normal values for cats can and do change based on age, fitness level, breed, activity level, and other factors.
For example, a cat who is very active or fit may have higher heart rates in general than an older or sedentary cat would expect to have.
Your veterinarian will be able to give you more information about the ideal ranges for your particular pet as well as how his vital signs compare with what’s considered “normal” for this species in general.
How to Check Your Cat’s Vitals
Cats’ normal body temperature typically lies between 100.5 degrees F and 102.5 degrees F (38-39 degrees C), according to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center.
Although some breeds are slightly more prone to higher or lower temperatures than others, a fever in cats is considered abnormal unless it’s above 106 degrees.
Several factors can influence your cat’s temperature, including recent exercise, stress levels, and even time of day, after all, they’re animals just like we are!
When you notice that Fluffy seems listless or otherwise out of sorts for no apparent reason, a high temperature may be one cause for concern; other symptoms such as lethargy, weakness, or rapid heartbeat should also raise red flags about an illness requiring veterinary attention.
While there are many reasons why your cherished feline might have an elevated temperature from exposure to hot weather to simple muscle exertion during playtime don’t hesitate to contact your vet if you suspect something serious is going on behind the scenes.
Respiratory Rate
Breathing difficulties in cats can be caused by many things.
If your cat’s breathing changes, it’s important to find out why right away.
Your vet will conduct a physical exam and may recommend additional tests to pinpoint the problem.
The most common cause of respiratory trouble is asthma in cats, which affects about 18 percent of all domesticated felines, says Richard G. Sherding, DVM, emeritus professor at the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine.
Asthma usually causes coughing when your cat inhales or exhales; sometimes there are wheezing sounds as well.
Another common cause is congestive heart failure: As the fluid builds up around your pet’s lungs (and heart), she has more difficulty drawing air into her body and that makes it harder for her to breathe normally again without assistance from you or your veterinarian.
To determine if your kitty needs professional help rather than home care, ask yourself these questions: Is my cat eating? Drinking water? Sleeping normally? If not then take them to a veterinarian.
Heart Rate
While you might be able to feel your cat’s heartbeat, it can be difficult to count the number of beats.
The best way to check your cat’s heart rate is with a stethoscope a task pet care experts advise leaving to the vet.
Making sure that she has been resting for at least five minutes before checking her pulse will give you an accurate reading.
You can also have your veterinarian check your kitty’s heart and thyroid gland during regular visits without any invasive or expensive tests!
However, if you’re concerned about how fast, slow, or irregularly your cat’s heart is beating at home, call her vet immediately.
Blood Pressure
Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries.
When that force becomes too strong, it can damage and weaken them over time.
Blood vessels become more rigid with age, so as our pets age their bodies are less able to regulate blood pressure effectively than when they were young.
Are There Different Vitals for Certain Cats?
Your cat’s breed has a huge impact on his or her health.
While all cats can develop certain types of illnesses, some breeds are more susceptible to specific diseases than others.
For example, Persian and Siamese cats are at higher risk for developing kidney failure, while Burmese and Maine coon cats are more likely than other breeds to have heart disease.
Why You Should Check Your Cat’s Vital Signs
When you take your cat to the vet for his annual check-up, he or she will measure and record several vital signs.
These include temperature, pulse rate (pulse), respiratory rate (respiratory), heart rhythm, and blood pressure.
While taking vitals is a routine part of most veterinary visits for healthy cats, some owners may not be familiar with why it’s important to monitor these levels.
The information that your veterinarian gathers from measuring vital signs helps her diagnose medical problems in their early stages when they are often easier to treat successfully than later on.
Additionally, yearly vet checkups are vital to maintaining your cat’s health by allowing the veterinarian to update vaccinations; perform dental care such as cleaning teeth and removing tartar; examine eyes; do internal exams; evaluate weight management; discuss nutrition needs, and review any changes that have occurred since last year’s visit.
Most importantly though, regular physical examinations can help detect diseases before they become significant enough to cause illness which could lead to fatal consequences later on.
Final Thoughts, What is a Cat’s Average Temperature?
In conclusion, a cat’s average temperature is 101.5 degrees Fahrenheit.
While there are variations in temperature depending on the breed of cat, this is a good general guideline to keep in mind.
If your cat seems to be running a fever, be sure to take it to the veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.
FAQs
How to take a cats temperature?
The best way to take a cat’s temperature is by using a digital thermometer with a flexible tip. Lubricate the tip of the thermometer with petroleum jelly and insert it into the rectum about 1 inch. Hold the thermometer in place for 3 minutes. Remove and read the temperature.
How do cats regulate their body temperature?
Cats have a number of ways to regulate their body temperature. They can move around to get warmer or cooler, depending on the weather; they can pant or drool to cool down, and they can even bury themselves in the sand to keep warm.
How can you tell if a cat has a fever?
You can’t tell for sure if a cat has a fever, but you can look for other signs that might suggest the cat is not feeling well. Fever in cats is generally defined as a temperature of 103 degrees or higher. Other signs that might suggest a fever include lethargy, poor appetite, and vomiting. If you think your cat might have a fever, it’s best to take it to the veterinarian for confirmation and treatment if needed.
Can you use a forehead thermometer on a cat?
Yes, you can use a forehead thermometer on a cat. Forehead thermometers are designed to be used on people, but they can also be used on cats.
How do I take a cat’s temperature at home?
There are a few ways to take a cat’s temperature at home. One is to use a rectal thermometer. This can be done by lubricating the thermometer with petroleum jelly and inserting it into the anus about 1 inch. Leave it in for about 5 minutes. Another way is to use an ear thermometer. This can be done by gently pulling back the cat’s ear and placing the thermometer in the ear canal.
How do I know if my cat has a fever without a thermometer?
There are a few ways to tell if your cat has a fever. One way is to feel your cat’s forehead. If it feels warmer than normal, your cat may have a fever. Another way is to look at your cat’s eyes. If they look glassy or sunken in, your cat may have a fever. You can also check your cat’s gums. If they are pinker than normal, your cat may not have a fever.
