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Fever in Dogs

Fever in dogs is a condition in which the body temperature rises above the normal range of about 38 to 39.2 degrees Celsius, in response to an infection, inflammation, or other health problems.

Can Occur with the Following Diseases:

Basics and possible causes

Fever is a natural defense mechanism of the body and occurs when the immune system responds to invaders such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi. The body raises its temperature to inhibit the growth of these pathogens, as many of them are less likely to survive at higher temperatures.

Another common scenario for fever is an inflammatory response, in which the immune system responds to injuries or irritants. This reaction can be triggered by a variety of factors, including autoimmune diseases, where the body mistakenly attacks its own cells, or by physical injuries such as cuts or bruises.

In addition, vaccinations can temporarily cause fever in dogs. This is because the vaccine stimulates the immune system to produce an immune response, which in rare cases can lead to a slight increase in body temperature.

Some chronic diseases, such as cancer or endocrine disorders, can also cause fever. In these cases, the fever is often a sign of an underlying, more serious condition that requires a comprehensive veterinary examination.

Poisoning or ingestion of toxic substances can also trigger fever. In such cases, the fever is often accompanied by other serious symptoms that require immediate veterinary attention.

Typical accompanying symptoms

Lethargy: Dogs with fever are often unusually tired and withdrawn because their bodies conserve energy to fight the disease process.
Loss of appetite: A dog with fever may lose interest in food, as the body needs all resources to fight the infection.
Dehydration: Fever can lead to increased fluid loss and thus dehydration. This is often evident in a dry mouth and decreased skin elasticity.
Shivering or chills: Dogs may shiver in an attempt to regulate their body temperature.
Rapid breathing and increased pulse: Heart and breathing rates may increase to meet the body’s increased metabolic needs.

When to visit the vet?

A veterinarian should be consulted if a dog's fever lasts longer than 24 hours or the body temperature exceeds 40 degrees Celsius. Such temperatures are potentially dangerous and can lead to organ damage.

If the fever is accompanied by other serious symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, convulsions, or severe cough, an immediate veterinary examination is also necessary. These symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition that needs to be treated promptly.

Especially in young, elderly, or immunocompromised dogs, fever should be treated quickly, as these animals are more susceptible to complications.

If the dog has recently been vaccinated and develops a fever, this should also be discussed with the veterinarian to ensure that it is a harmless vaccination reaction and not something more serious.

Symptom recognition for animal owners and veterinary diagnostic procedures

For pet owners, detecting fever is often difficult because dogs can hide their symptoms well. Measuring the body temperature with a digital thermometer in the dog’s rectum is the most reliable method of determining fever.

In addition to measuring temperature, an experienced veterinarian will also perform a thorough physical examination to look for signs of infection or inflammation. This includes palpating the abdomen, listening to the heart and lungs, and examining the mucous membranes.

In addition, blood tests may be ordered to check the white blood cell count, which is often elevated in the event of an infection. X-rays or ultrasound examinations may also be necessary to detect hidden sources of infection or tumors.

In some cases, a urinalysis or examination of body fluids may be necessary to identify specific causes of the fever, such as a urinary tract infection or other inflammatory processes.

What can pet owners do and professional therapy options

As a pet owner, there are some measures that can be taken immediately to help a dog with fever. First, the dog should be kept in a cool, quiet environment to avoid additional stress.

It is important to provide the dog with enough water to avoid dehydration. Fresh, clean water should always be within reach, and the dog should be encouraged to drink regularly.

The administration of antipyretic drugs should only be done after consulting a veterinarian, as many drugs suitable for humans can be toxic to dogs.

Gently cooling the dog can help lower the temperature. This can be done by rubbing with a damp cloth or a cool, wet washcloth, paying particular attention to the paws and abdomen.

If the fever persists or worsens, the pet owner should not hesitate to seek professional veterinary help to determine the cause of the fever and treat it appropriately.

Outlook on current research

Fever in dogs is a symptom that occurs as the body’s response to various triggers, including infections, inflammatory conditions, medications, or environmental factors. Current research focuses on understanding the underlying molecular mechanisms that lead to an increased body temperature. A key discovery is that cytokines, proteins released by immune cells, play a key role in inducing fever. These cytokines affect the hypothalamus, which acts as a thermoregulatory center in the brain, to increase body temperature. This helps the body fight pathogens more efficiently.

Another area of research focuses on identifying biomarkers that can be used for early detection and monitoring of fever in dogs. By analyzing blood samples and examining specific proteins or genetic markers, scientists hope to develop more accurate diagnostic tools that allow for early intervention. Such approaches could help improve treatment outcomes in febrile diseases by allowing veterinarians to respond more quickly to the underlying cause of the fever.

In terms of treatment, intensive work is being done to develop new drugs that can effectively reduce fever without compromising the body’s natural defenses. Traditionally, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used to control fever, but they can have side effects. Researchers are exploring alternative agents that more specifically target the mechanisms that cause fever, while exhibiting better tolerability.

Another exciting research approach is the investigation of the genetic predisposition to fever in dogs. Some breeds appear to be more susceptible to febrile diseases, and through genetic studies, scientists hope to identify the specific genes that influence the risk. In the long term, this could lead to targeted breeding programs that reduce the incidence of fever in susceptible breeds.

Environmental factors are also increasingly being investigated as potential triggers for fever in dogs. Studies show that stress, climate, and other external influences can affect the immune response and thus body temperature. The research aims to gain a more comprehensive understanding of how these factors interact with other causes to trigger fever.

Overall, current research efforts show that fever in dogs is a complex symptom that arises from an interaction of various biological, genetic, and environmental factors. Advances in research could lead to improved diagnostic and treatment strategies that ultimately improve the health and well-being of dogs worldwide.

Frequently asked questions

What is the normal body temperature of a dog? The normal body temperature of a dog is between 37.5 and 39.2 degrees Celsius. Temperatures above this can be considered fever.
How can I tell if my dog has a fever? Fever can be detected by measuring the rectal temperature. Signs such as lethargy, loss of appetite, chills, and warm ears can also indicate fever.
What are the most common causes of fever in dogs? Common causes include infections, inflammatory conditions, reactions to medications, and heatstroke. Stress and environmental factors can also play a role.
What should I do if my dog has a fever? It is important to consult a veterinarian to determine the cause of the fever and begin appropriate treatment. Self-medication should be avoided.
Can vaccinations cause fever in dogs? Yes, vaccinations can occasionally cause a temporary increase in body temperature, but this usually resolves on its own.
Is fever always a cause for concern? Fever is a sign that the body is reacting to a problem. While a slight fever is not always serious, a veterinarian should be consulted for persistent or high fever.
Can home remedies help with fever? Some home remedies, such as offering cool water and providing a cool resting place, can help, but they do not replace veterinary care.
How long can fever last in a dog? This depends on the cause. A short fever may subside within 24 to 48 hours, while chronic fever may last longer and requires veterinary examination.
Can certain breeds be more prone to fever? Yes, some breeds may be genetically more susceptible to febrile diseases. Research is being conducted to understand the specific genetic factors.
How can fever in dogs be treated? Treatment depends on the cause. Antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, or other specific therapies may be necessary. Always treat under veterinary supervision.

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