How Can You Tell When Cats Have A Fever?

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shanynne

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I always thought that if their ears were either really cold or really hot and that their bodies were warm and "clammy" that they had a fever. Am I correct?

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cloud_shade

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The best way is to use a thermometer.
My Spot's ears would get hot when his thyroid levels were out of whack, so hot ears aren't a guarentee of fever.
 
lizch6699

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Ears aren't really a good indication. They're a far off extension of the body and can be affected by the surroundings too easily. The best and safest way is by taking a rectal temperature. It can be tricky if you haven't done it before and you may need someone's help. The good thing is that it's quick and painless!
 
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shanynne

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Originally Posted by lizch6699

Ears aren't really a good indication. They're a far off extension of the body and can be affected by the surroundings too easily. The best and safest way is by taking a rectal temperature. It can be tricky if you haven't done it before and you may need someone's help. The good thing is that it's quick and painless!
Click to expand...
Eeeek! I don't know if I can do that. Let's put it this way, I know Trouble will never let me.
 
xocats

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I use a pet ear canal thermometer that can be found at most large pet stores...
It is not quite as accurate as a rectal thermometer but if you get several base line readings when your kitty is well...
that will not be an issue.

Some people say that a children's ear canal thermometer works just as well, but a cats ear canal in deeper so I got the pet model.
You might want to ask your vet for her opinion.
 
jcat

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Originally Posted by xocats

I use a pet ear canal thermometer that can be found at most large pet stores...
It is not quite as accurate as a rectal thermometer but if you get several base line readings when your kitty is well...
that will not be an issue.

Some people say that a children's ear canal thermometer works just as well, but a cats ear canal in deeper so I got the pet model.
You might want to ask your vet for her opinion.
Click to expand...
I use a baby's ear canal thermometer. My vet at first didn't want to believe it worked accurately, but then did her own trials, and concluded that it was as accurate as a digital rectal thermometer. And a lot easier to use.
 
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