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Fever in cats

Fever in cats is an elevation of body temperature above the normal range, which is usually between 38.0°C and 39.2°C. Values above 39.2°C are considered fever.

Can Occur with the Following Diseases:

Basics and possible causes

Fever is a natural reaction of the body to pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi. It can also be triggered by inflammatory conditions, injuries, or certain medications. The body raises its temperature to support the immune system by inhibiting the multiplication of microorganisms and increasing the activity of immune cells.

The causes of fever in cats are varied. Infections are one of the most common causes. Bacterial infections such as respiratory or urinary tract infections can cause fever. Viral infections such as Feline Calicivirus or Feline Herpesvirus are also common triggers. Fungal infections, although less common, can also cause fever.

Non-infectious causes should also be considered. These include autoimmune diseases, in which the immune system attacks the body’s own tissues, as well as cancers. Reactions to vaccinations or the intake of certain medications can also occasionally trigger fever. In some cases, the exact cause remains unknown; this is referred to as “fever of unknown origin”.

Typical accompanying symptoms

Lethargy: Cats with fever often appear tired and less active than usual. They withdraw and sleep more than usual.
Loss of appetite: A febrile cat often eats less or refuses food altogether. This is a common reaction of the body to illness.
Dehydration: Due to the increased body temperature, fluid loss (dehydration) can occur, which can lead to dehydration. This is evident by dry mucous membranes and skin that slowly returns to its original position when lifted.
Rapid breathing or panting: A febrile cat may breathe faster to regulate body temperature. Panting is unusual in cats and should always be considered a warning sign.
Changes in behavior: Cats with fever may be irritable or restless. Some withdraw, others seek more closeness than usual.
Chills: Cats may show shivering or muscle tremors as the body attempts to raise the temperature further.

When to visit the vet?

A veterinary visit is urgently required if the fever lasts longer than 24 to 48 hours or if the temperature exceeds 40°C. Such high temperatures can lead to serious health problems and require immediate medical treatment.

Also, if the fever is accompanied by other symptoms, such as severe vomiting, diarrhea, jaundice (yellow discoloration of the skin or eyes), or signs of pain, a veterinarian should be consulted. These symptoms may indicate more serious health problems.

Young kittens, older cats, or cats with weakened immune systems are particularly susceptible to the effects of fever and should be examined by a veterinarian at the first signs.

Symptom recognition for animal owners and veterinary diagnostic procedures

Pet owners can recognize fever by measuring their cat’s temperature with a rectal thermometer. Digital thermometers are the easiest to handle and provide quick results. A temperature above 39.2°C indicates fever.

During the veterinary examination, a thorough medical history will be taken to identify possible causes of the fever. The veterinarian will physically examine the cat to detect signs of inflammatory conditions or other symptoms. Blood tests may be necessary to diagnose infections, inflammatory conditions, or other health problems.

In some cases, further tests, such as X-rays, ultrasound, or special blood tests, may be necessary to determine the cause of the fever. These tests help to rule out more serious conditions and initiate targeted treatment.

What can pet owners do and professional therapy options

The pet owner should ensure that the cat remains in a quiet and stress-free environment. Adequate hydration is crucial, so fresh water should always be available. If there are signs of dehydration, it may be helpful to offer the cat water with a syringe if it does not want to drink on its own.

The pet owner should not allow the cat access to potential stressors, such as loud noises or other animals, that could worsen the situation. A comfortable, warm sleeping place can help to promote the cat’s well-being.

It is important never to administer medication without veterinary advice, as many human medications can be toxic to cats. Only a veterinarian can prescribe appropriate medications to relieve the symptoms and treat the cause of the fever.

Regular monitoring of body temperature can help to monitor the course of the disease. If the cat’s condition worsens or the fever persists, the veterinarian should be consulted immediately.

Outlook on current research

Research on fever in cats is increasingly focused on the molecular and cellular mechanisms that lead to an elevated body temperature. Scientists are trying to understand the role of cytokines, especially interleukin-1 and tumor necrosis factor, which are known as endogenous pyrogens and play a central role in triggering fever. By studying these molecules, researchers hope to find better diagnostic markers to distinguish fever from other thermoregulatory changes.

Another area of research is the investigation of genetic predisposition in cats that could lead to an increased susceptibility to fever. Studies analyze genetic markers associated with an excessive immune response. The goal is to find out whether certain cat breeds or lines are more susceptible to febrile reactions and whether genetic selection is possible to reduce this susceptibility.

At the same time, intensive work is being carried out on the development and improvement of non-invasive methods for fever monitoring. Researchers are testing new technologies such as infrared thermography and wearable thermal sensors, which are designed to enable continuous and stress-free monitoring of cats’ body temperature. These technologies could be used not only in clinical practice but also in the home environment to ensure early detection of fever.

The role of the microbiome composition in the context of fever development is another emerging area of research. Scientists are investigating how the balance of the intestinal flora can influence immune behavior and thus body temperature. Initial results suggest that certain bacterial profiles may be associated with an increased predisposition to inflammatory conditions and thus a higher probability of fever.

Another exciting field of research is the investigation of environmental factors that influence fever in cats. This involves examining the influence of stress, nutrition, and lifestyle on the thermoregulation and immune response of cats. Findings from these studies could help to develop preventive measures that minimize the risk of febrile episodes.

In summary, current research aims at a better understanding of the complex mechanisms behind fever in cats. These findings could lead to improved diagnostic and treatment strategies in the future, which not only improve the quality of life of cats but also alleviate the concerns of their owners.

Frequently asked questions

What is fever in cats? Fever in cats is an increase in body temperature triggered by the activation of the immune response. It differs from hyperthermia, which is caused by external influences such as heat.
How do I recognize fever in my cat? Signs of fever in cats can include apathy, loss of appetite, shivering, and an increased pulse. An accurate determination is made by measuring the rectal body temperature, which is above 39.2°C in case of fever.
Can I treat fever in my cat myself? It is not recommended to treat fever in cats without veterinary advice. Medications for humans can be dangerous for cats. A veterinarian can determine the cause of the fever and initiate the correct treatment.
What causes can fever have in cats? Fever can be caused by infections, inflammatory conditions, tumors, or autoimmune diseases. Sometimes the cause is unknown, which is referred to as fever of unknown origin.
How is fever diagnosed in cats? The diagnosis of fever involves a thorough medical history, a physical examination, and often blood tests or imaging procedures to identify the underlying cause.
How long can fever last in cats? The duration of fever varies depending on the cause. In the case of an infectious disease, it can last for a few days, while chronic diseases can lead to longer-lasting fever that requires continuous monitoring and treatment.
Can stress cause fever in cats? Stress can affect the immune system and indirectly lead to fever by increasing susceptibility to infections. However, a direct triggering of fever by stress alone is rare.
What role does the immune system play in fever? The immune system plays a crucial role in the development of fever, as the release of cytokines affects temperature regulation in the brain and increases body temperature to help fight pathogens.
Are there preventive measures against fever in cats? Regular health check-ups, vaccinations, and a balanced diet can help to strengthen the immune system and reduce the risk of febrile diseases. Avoiding stress can also be a preventive measure.
When should I take my cat to the vet for fever? If your cat shows signs of fever, such as apathy, loss of appetite, or shivering, and the temperature is above 39.2°C, you should see a veterinarian. This is especially important if the fever lasts longer than 24 hours or is accompanied by other symptoms.

Are you unsure what is wrong with your pet? Feel free to use our symptom checker for more clarity.