How to Tell If Your Cat Has a Fever: Best Thermometers & Techniques

If your cat has a fever, it could be a sign that they’re sick or have an underlying health condition. The most accurate way to check your cat's temperature is with a thermometer inserted into their rectum. However, the easiest and second-most reliable way to do it at home is to place an ear thermometer into the ear canal. We’ll also cover all the symptoms of a fever if you don’t have a thermometer on hand, but taking their temperature is the only definitive method. If you think your cat might have a fever, take them to a vet immediately. Keep reading to learn more.

The Best Way to Check a Cat’s Temperature

Hold your cat underneath one arm with their head behind you and their feet planted on a firm surface. Insert a lubed thermometer 1 inch (2.5 cm) into their anus and check the reading when it beeps. If your cat’s temperature is above or below 100 to 102.5 °F (37.8 to 39.2 °C), take them to the vet right away.

Section 1 of 5:

Checking a Cat’s Temperature

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1
Use a pediatric rectal thermometer to take your cat’s temperature. Place a disposable sleeve on the digital thermometer and cover the stem with a water-based lubricating jelly. Hold your cat under one arm with their tail facing in front of you and their feet on a table. Insert the thermometer 1 inch (2.5 cm) into the cat’s anus until it beeps.^{[1]XResearch source}
- This is the most effective and trustworthy way to get a cat’s temperature.^{[2]XResearch source}
- Ask a friend to help you hold the cat if possible. If you have a squirmy kitty, gently wrap them up in a towel with their behind exposed.^{[3]XResearch source}
- Hold the thermometer at a 90-degree angle and try not to angle it or push it into the rectum more than 1 inch (2.5 cm).
- Try to avoid using a glass thermometer containing mercury.^{[4]XTrustworthy SourceUnited States Environmental Protection AgencyIndependent U.S. government agency responsible for promoting safe environmental practicesGo to source} If you only have a glass thermometer on hand, insert it as directed above and hold it in for 3 minutes.^{[5]XTrustworthy SourceMedlinePlusCollection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of MedicineGo to source}
- After you’re done, throw away the disposable sleeve and use warm soapy water or rubbing alcohol to wash the end of the thermometer.^{[6]XTrustworthy SourceMayo ClinicEducational website from one of the world's leading hospitalsGo to source}
2
Use an ear thermometer to check your cat’s temperature. Hold your cat’s head with one hand, stroking their chin while supporting their body with your arm and their feet on the table.^{[7]XResearch source} Turn on the ear thermometer and place it into the cat’s ear canal, holding it there until it beeps.
- If your cat wriggles a lot, wrap them up in a soft towel or blanket and lower your body towards the cat, using your hands to hold their head still and give them soft strokes.^{[8]XResearch source}
- If you have a friend available, have them take your cat’s temperature while you hold them still.
- After you’re done taking your cat’s temperature, clean the thermometer thoroughly with warm soapy water or rubbing alcohol before putting it away.^{[9]XTrustworthy SourceMayo ClinicEducational website from one of the world's leading hospitalsGo to source}
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3
A cat’s normal temperature is 100 to 102.5 °F (37.8 to 39.2 °C). If your cat’s temperature is below or above that range, wait 15 minutes and take their temperature again to get an accurate reading. If the reading stays the same, book an appointment with your vet right away.^{[10]XResearch source}
- If you see blood, diarrhea, or black, tarry stool on the thermometer, that’s also a sign to take your cat to the vet right away.^{[11]XResearch source}

Section 2 of 5:

Symptoms of a Fever in Cats

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Your cat’s eating and playing behaviors may change suddenly. Veterinarian Dr. Brian Bourquin says that some cats with a fever might “wobble, often hide,” “avoid wanting to be touched,” or have “a dry nose… because the cat will be dehydrated.” He also says “If a fever is high enough, you can sometimes even notice the difference by holding the cat. They'll feel warmer to you.”^{[12]XExpert SourceBrian Bourquin, DVM
VeterinarianExpert Interview. 20 December 2019.}
- Other signs of fever include:^{[13]XResearch source}
  - Loss of appetite
  - Weakness or lethargy
  - Rapid heart rate
  - Decreased activity or grooming
  - Shivering or rapid breathing
  - Vomiting, diarrhea, or sneezing
  - Glassy or red and watery eyes
- However, Dr. Brian Bourquin also says “You may not see any signs of fever at all. The only way to say for sure whether a cat has a fever is to take [their] rectal temperature.”^{[14]XExpert SourceBrian Bourquin, DVM
  VeterinarianExpert Interview. 20 December 2019.}

Section 3 of 5:

Why does my cat have a fever?

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Fevers are most commonly caused by infections and diseases. Bartonella (cat scratch disease), tularemia, and other infectious diseases can cause fever in cats. Outdoor cats that come into contact with rats and other animals might be the most at-risk for exposure to these diseases.^{[15]XTrustworthy SourceCenters for Disease Control and PreventionMain public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human ServicesGo to source} Fevers can also be caused by:
- Fungal, bacterial, or viral infections
- Infections and abscesses
- Parasitic diseases like toxoplasmosis^{[16]XResearch source}
- Certain medications
- Injury
- Tumors

Section 4 of 5:

When is it time to take my cat to a vet?

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Take your cat to a vet if their temperature is above or below normal. Cats can overcome a fever on their own if they have a mild sickness, but it’s always a good idea to consult your vet to make sure it isn’t a sign of a larger issue. If your cat’s behavior or eating habits change dramatically, visit a vet right away.^{[17]XResearch source}
- If your cat’s fever stays above 100 to 102.5 °F (37.8 to 39.2 °C) for longer than 24 hours, take your cat to an emergency vet clinic.
- Tell your vet about any other symptoms your cat exhibits so they can determine a diagnosis.
- If the cause of your kitty’s fever cannot be determined, they might be diagnosed with a fever of unknown origin (FUO), which may be treated with antibiotics first.^{[18]XResearch source}

Section 5 of 5:

Caring for a Cat with a Fever at Home

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1
Follow the vet’s instructions when administering medication. To administer medicine, put your non-dominant hand on the top of their head with your thumb on one side of their cheek and your fingers on the other.^{[19]XResearch source}
- Gently tilt their head back so their nose is toward the ceiling, gently apply pressure with your dominant hand to open their mouth.
  - Pills and tablets: Quickly place them onto the tongue as far back as you can, then close their mouth and hold it until you see your cat swallow.
  - Liquid medicines: Insert the syringe or dropper in the side of their mouth behind their large fangs.
- If your vet says to put the tablet in food, crush it and mix it into their meal or put it inside a soft, tasty cat treat.
2
Make sure your cat has easy access to fresh clean water. If your cat is drinking less water, gently encourage them by making sure you have several water bowls so your cat doesn’t have to go far and trying other liquids like water from a can of tuna or meat broths.^{[20]XResearch source}
- Place one water bowl on each level in your house so your cat doesn’t have to go up or downstairs to drink.
- Put water bowls away from their food bowls, in a quiet location away from doors or especially busy places.
- Try to avoid giving your cat salty liquids, milk, or anything containing onions or onion powder.
3
Most fevers go away in a day or two, but it depends on your cat’s condition. If your cat has a minor illness or infection, they might recover quickly after starting treatment with a vet. However, serious conditions could take weeks to months or require multiple approaches until your kitty’s symptoms go away.^{[21]XTrustworthy SourceAmerican Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to AnimalsLeading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal crueltyGo to source}
- Some extreme viruses, like Feline Leukemia Virus (FelV) or Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) have no cure but can be alleviated with medications.^{[22]XTrustworthy SourceAmerican Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to AnimalsLeading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal crueltyGo to source}

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What happens when a cat has a fever?
Brian Bourquin, DVM
Veterinarian
Brian Bourquin, better known as “Dr. B” to his clients, is a Veterinarian and the Owner of Boston Veterinary Clinic, a pet health care and veterinary clinic with three locations, South End/Bay Village, the Seaport, and Brookline, Massachusetts. Boston Veterinary Clinic specializes in primary veterinary care, including wellness and preventative care, sick and emergency care, soft-tissue surgery, dentistry. The clinic also provides specialty services in behavior, nutrition, and alternative pain management therapies using acupuncture, and therapeutic laser treatments. Boston Veterinary Clinic is an AAHA (American Animal Hospital Association) accredited hospital and Boston’s first Fear Free Certified Clinic. Brian has over 19 years of veterinary experience and earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Cornell University.
Brian Bourquin, DVM
Veterinarian
Expert Answer
Your cat may not be as social as it normally is or it may not have the same appetite. Pay attention to when your cat acts lethargic since it could be a sign that it's sick.
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My cat sneezes a lot and isn't herself. Is she sick?
Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.
Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Expert Answer
Sneezing, along with altered behavior, can be indicative of illness. Try and encourage her to eat, which will keep her strength up to fight any infection. Watch to see how much she eats and drinks, and check the litter tray to see if her poop is normal or not. If you are worried, especially if she isn't eating or drinking, then a vet check is always the best option.
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How can I tell if my cat has a cold?
Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.
Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Expert Answer
A cat with a cold shows similar symptoms to us. She may sneeze, have a runny nose or eyes. In addition, she may sleep more than usual or refuse to eat. If you are worried, get her checked by a vet.
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Tips

Keep your cat up-to-date on routine vaccinations to protect them from dangerous diseases and help them live a longer, happier life.^{[23]XTrustworthy SourceCenters for Disease Control and PreventionMain public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human ServicesGo to source}
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Warnings

Avoid treating your cat’s fever with aspirin or acetaminophen (Tylenol). These medications are extremely toxic to cats.^{[24]XResearch source}
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Avoid giving your cat fever-reducing medications or sponge baths to reduce fever. Always consult a veterinarian before attempting to treat a cat's illness.
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Try to avoid scruffing your cat while taking their temperature. Scruffing, or gripping the loose skin on the back of a cat’s neck, can cause stress and distress in cats.^{[25]XResearch source}
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