Every cat owner should know how to identify abnormalities in the cat's condition that indicate possible ill health. If a person wants his pet to remain healthy, then it is necessary to be able to identify the signs of diseases and fight them. One of the indicators of a cat's condition is its body temperature. We will figure out how to determine the need and how to measure this indicator, as well as methods of providing assistance in case of unhealthy pet.

The body temperature of a cat, provided that it is an adult and healthy animal, can vary from 38 to 39.5 degrees. This is an individual indicator of the organism, which is due to certain features of the functioning of the hypothalamic-pituitary and the entire central nervous system of the animal and depends little on the influence of external factors.

Each owner should periodically show his pet a veterinarian for the purpose of a dispensary examination, during which it is necessary, among other things, to measure the temperature. It is necessary to understand how this indicator is normal for a cat. After all, if she has signs of deviations, then after measuring the temperature, it will need to be compared with the baseline.

If it is normal for an animal when the values ​​are about 39 degrees, then an increase of two tenths will not be a sign of pathology.

In other words, a cat's usual temperature is about 38 degrees, then a value of 39.2 will already indicate some serious process.

By the way, it should be borne in mind that for a normal temperature is 41.5 degrees.

Body temperature in cats depends on many factors. The most significant of them are:

• age (in older cats, the indicators gradually decrease, which is due to a general slowdown in all processes in the body);
• gender (as a rule, in male animals, the temperature indicators are normally higher, since they have a faster metabolism, they are more active and stronger);
• physiology (when the cat lies, sleeps, its temperature decreases quite strongly, since all processes slow down due to the lack of the need to produce energy, after eating, a period of high activity, the temperature rises);
• time of day (in the morning the indicators are lower than in the evening);
• state of health (if a pathological process occurs in the animal's body, this may affect the functioning of the thermoregulation mechanism).

Normal indicators in kittens

In kittens, temperature indicators can vary quite a lot, since not all systems and organs are still working in full volume, and the process of thermoregulation is not completely debugged. V early age all the work of the central nervous system is aimed at growth and development, so they have metabolic processes very quickly.

In general, the same indicators are considered normal as in adults (38-39.5 degrees), but there are quite a few exceptions to this rule. When a kitten is still very tiny, a decrease in temperature indicators is much more dangerous for its body than a strong increase.

Moreover, its the immune system is also in the process of formation. He constantly encounters various microorganisms to which defense mechanisms are developed. An increase in body temperature may indicate that the body has met with another infectious agent and forms immunity to it.

Kittens and adult animals also have differences in the functioning of the mucous membranes, therefore, it is not worth focusing on the dryness or moisture of the nose when determining the state of a small animal.

In a kitten, the temperature undergoes significant changes during the day. For example, after a period of high activity or heavy meals, it can seriously exceed normal values, and then return to normal in a short time.

Unlike adults, it affects the body temperature of a small animal and the state of the environment. The mechanism of thermoregulation has not yet been established, and if the baby is in conditions of a sufficiently low temperature, it freezes, then his body can heat up to 40 or more degrees.

The temperature is finally established and ceases to vary greatly at the age of about 6 months, although this figure is highly dependent on the individual and the breed.

Body temperature in pregnant cats

It is best if one person will fix the animal, and the other will carry out the procedure. If the cat is large, shows serious discontent, then it may take two to just hold it.

To fix the body of the animal, you can use a towel: the cat is wrapped tightly, leaving the back of the body free, but wrapping its hind legs. One person takes the pet in his arms, and the second enters the thermometer. You can do without the fixing fabric, simply by holding the front paws with one hand, and pressing the withers against a firm horizontal surface with the other.

The working end of the measuring device is lubricated with some material that gives better gliding (cream, petroleum jelly) and inserted into the anus to a depth not exceeding 2 cm (the kitten should insert a thermometer to a depth of 1 cm).

This must be done carefully and delicately so as not to cause unnecessary suffering to the pet.

Electronic thermometers have a temporary advantage over conventional mercury thermometers, in addition, a buzzer sounds at the end of the measurement.

The mercury thermometer should be kept inside the cat's body for 4-5 minutes, which makes the procedure very difficult, especially if the animal shows strong discontent or aggression.

At the end, it is necessary to remove the device, evaluate the indicators, compare them with normal ones. The working end needs to be processed disinfectant... When assessing, one should take into account the behavior of the cat during the procedure: if it resists very strongly, then it occurs, and therefore, the temperature rises.

Especially in order to make life easier for cats and to protect them from stress, thermometers have been developed that can take thermometry without causing severe discomfort. These devices are infrared thermometers.

There are two types of such devices: ear and non-contact. In the latter case, the cat does not experience any sensations at all during the procedure. The tool is simply pointed at the body of the animal, after which the result is immediately obtained.

The measurement error is small: only 0.2-0.3 degrees, but the cost of such devices is very high.

Infrared ear thermometers are also not cheap and do not cause discomfort to your pet either. Injected shallowly into the ear, they show results quickly, but the answer may be distorted if the cat has some ear pathologies.

Possible causes of temperature changes

The most common causes of a high fever can be:

In cases where, after surgery or vaccinations, an elevated temperature, especially against the background of other alarming symptoms, persists for 2-3 days, then the animal should be shown to the veterinarian as soon as possible.

Hypothermia in cats can occur for the following reasons:

• prolonged stay in a low-temperature regime, hypothermia (cats in early childhood or old age freeze and overcool the fastest);
• exhaustion (when a cat does not finish eating, it has a pronounced weakness starving, all processes in the body slow down, it does not have enough resources to generate energy and maintain thermoregulation);
• serious diseases affecting the kidneys, heart, organs of the endocrine system;
• oncology;
• poisoning;
• serious blood loss with internal or external massive bleeding.

Mister Cat explains: giving first aid to a pet

In cases where thermometry showed deviations from the norm, you need to take your pet to a doctor. He will be able to establish the cause of the temperature change and prescribe the necessary treatment.

If it is not possible to go to the clinic immediately, then the owner must provide his pet with first aid.

When a cat has a low body temperature, the following measures should be taken:

• the animal is in a fever, it freezes, so it needs to be warmed by wrapping it in a warm soft tissue(for example, a plaid);
• close windows and doors to prevent drafts and penetration of cold air currents;
• you can put the cat on an electric one or attach an ordinary rubber heating pad next to it (in the absence of such means at home, you can use hot water bottles, only you need to adjust the temperature to prevent burns);
• to prevent dehydration of the body, the cat should be regularly given to drink, water or milk should be warm, if the animal refuses, then it is necessary to pour the liquid into the mouth with a pipette or a special syringe (you can take a regular, two-cube, without a needle).

Once in a warm place, the cat will immediately plunge into sleep, after which he will feel better. However, it is still necessary to show the animal to the veterinarian.

If the measurement reveals hyperthermia, then the following set of measures should be taken:

• moisten the animal's fur with water or wrap it in a damp towel;
• give to drink with cool liquid;
• Apply a few ice cubes to the neck or inner thighs (wrap the ice in a cloth or plastic bag).

These measures will help to alleviate the fever in the cat a little, to reduce the temperature readings by a few tenths of a degree.

In no case should it be possible to bring down the temperature of an animal with antipyretic drugs, antibiotics and other medicines produced for humans.

Dosage active ingredients in such products are designed specifically and for the cat may be too high. In addition, without knowing the true cause of hyperthermia, it is impossible to give medicines at all, choosing them yourself, without the appointment of a veterinarian. In an animal, drugs can cause serious, likely death.

If the temperature is kept at high values or continues to grow, the animal should be taken to a doctor immediately. It should be understood that the growth of indicators to critical values ​​can be fatal.

The owner should know when to take thermometry and how to help his pet. In a timely manner Taken measures with deviations in physiological indicators, they can save the cat's health and life.

In a healthy cat, body temperature varies in the range of 38.5-39.5 ℃, average values ​​are 38-39 ℃. The exact numbers for each animal are individual. It is important for the owners to find out the indicators of the pet in its natural state, it depends on which values ​​are considered increased and decreased.

So, the figure on the thermometer 39.8 ℃ will be a frivolous increase for a cat with a daily reading of 39 ℃. Values ​​below 37 ℃ and above 40 ℃ are considered an alarming sign, regardless of the individual rate.

During the day, the values ​​change in the range of half a degree:

• decrease in sleep and in the morning;
• towards evening, after physical activity and food is on the rise.

The mechanism of thermoregulation in kittens is formed gradually, so other temperature values ​​are considered the norm for them. In newborns, they range from 35.5 to 36.5 ℃, then gradually increase to 38.5-39.5 ℃.

In older cats metabolic processes in the body slows down, and the body temperature decreases slightly, in pregnant cats it rises. Indicators do not depend on the amount of wool. Hairless cats appear hotter due to the lack of hair between the animal's body and the human palm.

External signs of temperature changes

An increase in temperature in medicine is called "hyperthermia", a decrease - "hypothermia".

These states are accompanied by changes in behavior and well-being:

It is erroneous to determine the temperature by the condition of the nose. The lobe becomes warm and dry even in healthy animals during sleep and in old age.

Causes of increased temperature

Hyperthermia occurs due to external and internal stimuli, more often under the influence of the following factors:

• Viral diseases. Immunity reacts to pathogenic microorganisms with an increase in temperature, so bacteria die faster. In cats, panleukopenia (plague), rhinotracheitis, calcivirosis, and coronavirus are more common. From these diseases, in addition to the latter, it is possible to protect the pet with the help of vaccination.
• Inflammation. Pathogenic bacteria enter the body when wounds and stitches after injury or surgery heal slowly or are carelessly treated.
• Overheat. Heat dissipation is impaired in a stuffy, hot room, car, or in direct sunlight. Kittens and older cats are more likely to suffer from overheating.
• Stress. Thermoregulation disorder sometimes begins in stressful situations: when traveling by transport, changing residence, visiting a veterinarian.
• Temperature jump within 1 degree happens after sterilization and vaccinations. In the first case, it is a reaction to surgery, in the second, it is protection against viruses that enter the body with the vaccine. Increased indicators are kept for 1 day; if the fever does not subside for longer, it is best to take your pet to the vet.

Reasons for a drop in temperature

With hypothermia, blood flow goes to the heart and brain, decreases in the rest of the body, and as a result, the metabolism slows down.

Here are the conditions in which hypothermia begins:

• Hypothermia after being in the cold with high humidity.
• Weakened state: wasting from malnutrition.
• Violation of the work of internal organs: pathology of the heart and blood vessels, kidneys and liver, endocrine system.
• Viral infections if the disease proceeds against the background of suppressed immunity.
• Blood loss: occur after serious cuts, surgical operations, but more dangerous internal bleeding due to bruises, falls, diseases. The owners often do not notice this and do not help the pet.

The owner can know for sure about hypothermia, the other reasons cannot be identified without veterinary education and a special examination.

How to measure

The temperature is determined using a baby thermometer in the rectum. It is safer to use an electronic thermometer with a soft tip, but the measurement error is 0.1-0.5 ℃.

A mercury rectal thermometer shows accurate results, but due to its fragility, it is dangerous for the animal. A clinical mercury thermometer is not suitable: its tip is too thick, and the measurement time increases to 5-7 minutes.

Cats cannot stand unpleasant manipulations and fiercely resist, so they cannot do without an assistant.

The measurement procedure is as follows:

• the pet is fixed on the table in a standing position or on its side;
• the tip of the thermometer is disinfected with alcohol, smeared with petroleum jelly or levomekol;
• inserted into the anal passage by 1 cm, kittens by 0.5 cm;
• mercury rectal thermometer hold ~ 3 minutes, the electronic thermometer is held until the signal;
• after use, wipe the thermometer with alcohol.

First aid

With hyperthermia ( elevated temperature) the cat is taken to the veterinarian; if you can't show your pet to the doctor, they bring down the heat by at least tenths of a degree.

The condition can be alleviated by the following actions:

• increase the humidity in the room;
• moisten wool with water or wrap in a wet towel;
• put ice on the inside of the thighs, neck or behind the ears;
• drink cool water; if the pet refuses, use a pipette or syringe without a needle.

It is not allowed to treat the cat on your own, to give drugs. Many "human" antipyretics and antibiotics cause kidney damage, some are life-threatening drugs.

With hypothermia (low temperature) due to hypothermia, the pet is warmed:

• placed in a warm place without a draft;
• wrap up with a blanket;
• cover with heating pads or containers with hot water;
• give a warm drink with a pipette.

If these measures do not help within an hour, the pet is taken to the clinic. There they put an enema and a dropper with a heated saline solution. If the cat is not overcooled, and the temperature values ​​fall, the animal is wrapped up and taken to the doctor urgently, otherwise it may die.

Temperature deviation from the norm - clinical symptom masses of diseases, which only a doctor can identify and cure. The task of the cat owner is to find out the normal performance of the pet, to see dangerous changes in external symptoms in time, to be able to measure and help competently.

The temperature index in representatives of the feline family is one of the main indicators of the state of their body. If it changes and deviates from the norm, then there is a reaction to a pathology or an inflammatory process. To accept in time necessary measures, you need to know what body temperature is considered normal in cats.

Normal temperature in cats and kittens

37-38 degrees is considered a normal temperature in cats.

An indicator in the range of 37-38 degrees is considered the norm.... If the temperature is high or low, the pet may be unwell, but it is worth considering that it can change depending on:

• age;
• gender;
• time - in the evening it can be increased, and in the morning it can decrease;
• active or passive lifestyle (in mobile individuals, the temperature rises, but this is not considered a sign of the disease).

Kittens may have a temperature higher than normal for adult cat, because their thermoregulation is not yet developed to perfection, and thus babies are protected from hypothermia. Until the age of three months, the kitten's temperature indicators reach 39-39.5 degrees and only then balance up to 38.

How to measure temperature in a cat

This is done using a conventional medical device - a thermometer. Try to have a separate thermometer for your pet that will only be for personal use. Both a mercury and an electronic device will do.

Prepare everything you need to measure temperature:

• a towel or small blanket;
• alcohol-based disinfectant;
• thermometer (normal or specially for rectal use);
• petroleum jelly for lubrication;
• pet treat.

When you have everything you need at hand, you can start the procedure.

We measure body temperature

To measure the temperature of a cat, we need petroleum jelly.

The procedure takes place in several stages. Turn on the thermometer if it is an electronic type or shake it if the thermometer is mercury. Lubricate the tip with oil or petroleum jelly.

Then sit the animal sideways to you, pressing the other side with your hand. If the cat is aggressive and tries to scratch or bite, wrap it in a blanket.

Gently lift the tail and insert the thermometer, scrolling around its axis, into the anus. Wait a couple of minutes if using a mercury thermometer, or an electronic signal.

After removing the device, wipe it with alcohol and do not forget to see the temperature of your pet. At the end of the procedure, reward the animal with a treat.

Causes of increased temperature

During a violation of the thermoregulation system, the pet's body temperature rises. This signals the beginning incubation period disease or lack thereof.

The study of the symptoms and the attentive attitude of the owner to his pet will help to supplement the overall picture.

Non infectious temperature

It happens of different origins and differs in the reasons for the occurrence and the nature of the processes taking place:

• medication - caused active ingredients caught in internal organs substances that accelerate the process of thermoregulation;
• salt - a consequence of the accumulation of salts, which contributes to the breakdown of tissue and protein;
• protein - occurs during cell necrosis - their partial death.

Infectious temperature

It occurs during diseases caused by viruses or bacteria. Hyperthermia (fever) can simultaneously cause fever:

• subfebrile (increase by one degree);
• febrile (one to two degrees);
• hyperpyretic (three degrees above normal).

To determine the exact diagnosis, the delivery of laboratory tests, an ultrasound scan and an X-ray will help. Hyperthermia is a possible consequence of infection with a respiratory, intestinal or other kind of infection or viral disease.

Fever symptoms

At elevated temperatures, the cat becomes lethargic, does not eat well, the pulse and breathing become faster.

You notice that the cat's nose feels dry and hot to the touch - this is a signal of hyperthermia. The exception is elderly individuals, in which the cooling glands are poorly functioning.

When the temperature rises, the pet may feel weak, move sluggishly, or not get up from its place. The pulse quickens, breathing becomes heavy and intermittent. Perhaps the animal will tremble on eyeball a film is formed in the form of a third eyelid.

With hyperthermia, the animal often refuses to eat and almost does not drink fluids, which is fraught with dehydration. If many symptoms are on the face, the pet needs urgent treatment and your help.

How to bring down a cat's temperature

It is necessary to take into account the diagnosis and the phase of development of the disease. First of all, it is desirable to eliminate the focus causing inflammatory processes... Sometimes it is enough to give the animal antibiotics to normalize the body temperature.

It does not pose a great danger, because it helps the body to overcome viruses. It is better to use strong medications if you notice convulsive movements in your pet.
You can try to lower the temperature without using antibiotics - folk remedies:

• soaking a cloth in cold water and wrapping the cat for 8-10 minutes, which will gradually bring the temperature back to normal;
• taking ice out of the freezer, and wrapping it in gauze. This should be applied to the neck and inner thighs;
• it is advisable to drink more often or use "Regidron" to prevent the loss of fluid by the body.

If the temperature does not drop, you should consult a veterinarian.

Why is the temperature lowered

A sleeping cat has a body temperature of around 37 degrees

It may be below normal due to various factors. Representatives of the feline family at a respectable age have a lower temperature, but this is not a pathology.

In a sleeping animal, due to the slowing down of processes in the body, temperature indicators fluctuate between 36.5-37 degrees, because energy costs are reduced and there is no need to develop additional resources.

If the pet is sick, the temperature drops as a result of heart disease, kidney disease, blood vessels, the effects of stress, surgery or traumatic experience. Loss of blood is one of the factors that contribute to the decrease in temperature.

Symptoms and first aid

A decrease in temperature in cats is manifested in the following symptoms:

• trying to nestle closer to the warmth;
• convulsive movements, fever;
• apathy, depression;
• pallor of the mucous membrane;
• tousled hair.

Providing first aid to an animal begins with the need to put it on a flat place and wrap it in a warm blanket. It is advisable to give plenty of drinks, but not feed for several hours.

It is recommended to give your pet a drink alcoholic beverage in small doses. You can pour one or two ml of vodka or diluted alcohol down his throat with a syringe to kill germs. If you notice that there is no improvement, see your doctor.

What diseases can a change in temperature in a cat indicate?

The temperature in an animal can change due to infection respiratory tract, intestinal and others. The danger is a cancerous tumor, diseases of the genitourinary organs or viral.

Normal temperature in Sphynx cats is 38.5-39.5 degrees

Before giving birth, she deviates in one direction or another. A couple of days before lambing, the temperature reaches 37 degrees, and the day before it, it changes from 36.7 to 37.7 degrees. After the birth of kittens, the norm is 37.5 - 39.2.

During pregnancy itself, cats practically do not experience a decrease or increase in temperature.

Sphynx temperature

This breed stands out among others and external data, and internal characteristics of the body. Their temperature indicators reach 38.5-39.5 degrees. Newly born Sphynx kittens have a body temperature of up to 40 degrees.

You shouldn't panic because it seems to you that your pet is very hot. Lack of hair requires appropriate thermoregulation, hence the high temperature, which is the norm for representatives of the Sphynx breed.

Be attentive to your pets, and representatives of the feline family will respond to you with warmth and reciprocity.

You can see more clearly how to measure the temperature of a cat in the video, if you have any questions, ask them in the comments.

There is hardly a person who, having got a cat, would be indifferent to its well-being. Everyone knows that a rise in temperature is a signal that not all is well in the body. But what body temperature is considered normal for a cat and how to measure it, not everyone knows. But the timeliness of contacting the veterinarian largely depends on this. Let's try to understand these issues.

Thermoregulation of cats

Thermoregulation refers to the ability of animals to maintain body temperature within the most appropriate range for life, even if the ambient temperature is significantly different. Cats are mammals. To determine the ambient temperature, they, like other representatives of this group, have special sensitive organs located in the skin - these are receptors for cold and heat.

A receptor is a sensitive nerve ending or a specialized cell that converts perceived irritation into nerve impulses which, in turn, transmit information to the brain.

The number of receptors for cold and heat in cats is not the same. There are many more of the first, and they are not very deep in relation to the surface of the skin; heat receptors are located deeper. That is why almost all cats love warmth and only in extreme heat give preference to cool places.

Cold receptors are closer to the skin surface than heat receptors

Cats have several ways to maintain a normal body temperature:

The listed cooling methods are not always enough. It happens that best method do not overheat - it's just to go into the shadows. This is what cats do when they feel unwell due to the heat.

There are breeds that are more prone to overheating, such as the long-haired. They have heatstroke faster.

Changing body position allows cats to both increase heat transfer and retain heat. For example, in summer you can often see baleen, which lie stretched out in the sun, just like animals behave near the battery in winter. But as soon as it gets colder, the cat immediately curls up into a ball.

Like other mammals, cats can retain body heat by contracting small blood vessels skin: in the cold, the vessels narrow, and the heat transfer decreases, in the heat - they expand, and the heat transfer, respectively, increases. In addition, cats can fluff up, thus increasing in volume. The resulting air gap reduces heat loss, and the cat does not freeze. It is more difficult for hairless cats in this regard, in the cold they freeze very quickly.

By fluffing up its fur, the cat reduces heat loss.

The above methods of heat regulation are more relevant to adult cats. Kittens do not immediately become capable of independent thermoregulation. At temperatures below 18 ° C, babies can freeze.

Normal temperature readings

Almost all of my friends have or once had cats, but no one could answer the question of what temperature is normal for pets. They said that it was higher than that of people, but how much, no one knew. Almost all of the people I interviewed believe that it is not necessary to measure the temperature of cats. You should focus more on the well-being of the animal, and even more so you don't need to give your pets any medications. To be honest, I have never measured the temperature of a cat on my own, although I had three of them, one of them lived for 17 years, was ill and underwent surgery.

Body temperature, which is considered normal in cats, ranges from 38 o C to 39 o C. Like humans, animals can have individual characteristics, and the temperature can deviate from the accepted norms. Sometimes this can even be associated with the age of the cat or with the time of day (in a dream, the temperature is usually lower, and during wakefulness and the manifestation of activity, it rises). In grown kittens, the body temperature is half a degree higher than in adult cats, and in newborns, values ​​of 40–40.5 ° C are considered normal. goes down.

The temperature does not depend on large breed or small, long-haired or hairless. So, in Sphynx cats, the normal temperature is the same as in Maine Coon cats.

Reasons for the increase in body temperature of a cat

A cat's body temperature can rise, signaling various malfunctions in its body.

Hyperthermia - overheating, the accumulation of excess heat in the human or animal body caused by external factors that impede heat transfer to the external environment or increase the flow of heat from the outside, which is expressed in an increase in overall body temperature.

Most often, fever in cats is associated with various infections. But the cause can also be oncological, autoimmune and other diseases, as well as unexplained factors.

A cat's body temperature may rise, signaling disease.

Fever requiring veterinary attention

Serious illnesses, in addition to high fever, are accompanied by other symptoms that are hard to miss. It can be:

• Viral infections. Accompanied by a runny nose, discharge from the eyes, disorders of the digestive system.
• Bacterial infections. The cat loses its appetite and may vomit or have diarrhea.
• Helminthic invasions. An increase in temperature may be accompanied by indigestion, depression.
• Allergies and poisoning. Manifested by a characteristic rash and disorders of the digestive tract.
• Endocrine disorders, such as obesity or excessive weight loss, may be accompanied by a slight increase in the temperature of the animal (up to 39.8 ° C).
• Tumors. The cat loses weight, it begins to lose hair, digestion processes are disrupted.
• Purulent inflammation after injuries and injections, postpartum mastitis (inflammation of the mammary gland). In this case, you can notice painful seals at the site of inflammation.

In addition, the cat should be seen by the veterinarian when the following symptoms are observed:

• frequent rise in temperature, even to low levels;
• a sharp jump in temperature up to 41 ° C;
• for several days, the body temperature of the cat does not fall below 39.5 o C.

It is not recommended to knock down the temperature of a cat on your own using medication. Not all antipyretics used by humans can be used on animals. Also should not be applied folk methods, for example, covering the animal with ice. You can try to water the cat and move it to a calm place.

Hyperthermia, which shouldn't be a concern

Fever in cats occurs due to overheating... This can happen:

In case of overheating, the animal breathes often, it has a rapid heart rate. You can handle situations like this yourself. To do this, move the cat to a cool place and offer water.

An increase in temperature can also be observed during estrus. This is temporary and no veterinarian assistance is required.

Hyperthermia in cats can be caused by severe stress, for example, when changing the environment or the owner. Such a deviation in temperature is accompanied by a violation of the animal's behavior, loss of mood and appetite. But when the pet calms down, this state goes away by itself.

The reason for a slight increase in temperature may be the kittens' overeating, the temperature will return to normal after a while.

Causes of a drop in temperature in cats

In addition to an increase in body temperature, a cat can also experience a decrease in it, the so-called hypothermia.

Hypothermia is a condition of the body in which the body temperature drops below what is required to maintain normal metabolism and the functioning of all systems and organs.

Experts divide hypothermia into 3 types:

• light (body temperature in the range of 32–35 о С);
• moderate (28–32 о С);
• deep (below 28 ° C).

A common cause of low temperatures is hypothermia. To avoid it, you need to monitor your pet and not let the cat go for a walk in cold weather. Low body temperature may also indicate a cat's illness.

Below are the possible reasons low temperature in a cat:

• some bacteria and viruses (for example, enteritis virus);
• weakened body;
• loss of appetite and weight loss;
• consequence of anesthesia;
• the development of a malignant tumor;
• kidney disease (common in older animals);
• trauma;
• metabolic disorders;
• the consequence of poisoning;
• dehydration;
• heavy bleeding (internal or external);
• heart disease;
• diseases of the nervous system.

If the temperature of the animal is low, then the following symptoms may be observed:

• shiver;
• apathy;
• slowing down of breathing;
• violation of the heart rhythm.

The cat can look for a warmer place and sleep more than usual.

How to normalize an animal's temperature

First of all, when the body temperature drops, the cat should be warmed up.

For this you need:

1. Bring the animal into the room (if it was previously outside).
2. Be sure to dry your cat if it gets wet (for example, using a hair dryer).
3. Offer warm drinks such as milk or broth.
4. Wrap in a warm blanket and put a heating pad next to it, heated to 39 degrees.
5. Monitor temperature every 10 minutes.
6. After the temperature has returned to normal, give the animal food.

When to See Your Veterinarian for Hypothermia

The veterinarian should be consulted for hypothermia in the following cases:

• if the above actions did not lead to the normalization of the temperature;
• if the temperature is lowered to 36 degrees and continues to fall.

It is better to take the cat to the veterinary clinic on your own. The doctor will conduct a full examination of the animal and will try to diagnose the cause of the low temperature, as well as prescribe treatment.
The veterinary clinic can do:

• an enema with a warm solution;
• a dropper with a warming solution.

Adverse Effects of Hypothermia

A low temperature in a cat should not be ignored by the owner. With prolonged hypothermia, the cat may develop health problems, such as:

• meningitis (inflammation of the meninges);
• pneumonia (pneumonia);
• nephritis, pyelonephritis (inflammatory kidney disease).

How to measure a cat's body temperature

Today there are many types of thermometers that can quickly measure a cat's body temperature. Let's list the main models:

• Electronic universal thermometer with flexible tip. This device most accurately and quickly shows the body temperature of the animal. It is suitable for rectal measurements; temperature in the armpit and orally to cats is not measured. After a while (maximum 3 minutes), a special sound will be heard, indicating that the temperature change is complete. Electronic or digital thermometers differ quick action and measurement accuracy. Unlike glass mercury, they are not as fragile. The only disadvantage of an electronic thermometer is the price, which is an order of magnitude higher than that of mercury.
• Electronic universal thermometer with a rigid tip. The same properties as the previous model, only it must be used more carefully rectally due to the rigid tip.
• Infrared ear thermometer. The tip of this device is designed in such a way that you can safely measure the temperature in your cat's ear. The procedure does not disturb the animal and the temperature is measured quickly and accurately. The price of infrared thermometers is almost an order of magnitude higher than electronic ones. Advantages of the device:
  • speed (up to 30 seconds);
  • ease of use;
  • security.
• Non-contact infrared thermometers. You don't need to touch the cat at all - the device will measure the temperature from a distance. But such thermometers, unfortunately, have drawbacks - some experts believe that their readings are approximate.
• Mercury thermometer. This is a well-known device used to measure body temperature. Sometimes with a rounded tip - it can be used rectally. Such a thermometer is not best remedy to measure the body temperature of a cat. You will have to wait at least 7 minutes for the result, and during all this time you will need to hold your cat and persuade her to be calm. In addition, a mercury thermometer is fragile, and mercury is dangerous substance... If such a device breaks, then the animal can be injured and poisoned with poisonous vapors.

Photo gallery: different types of temperature measuring instruments in cats

Infrared ear thermometer shows results quickly A regular mercury thermometer can be used to measure the temperature of a cat rectally A versatile electronic thermometer can be used to measure the temperature of a cat A versatile electronic thermometer with a flexible tip, the most convenient for measuring temperature in a cat An infrared non-contact thermometer detects body temperature instantly and from a distance, but may have measurement errors

How to measure temperature

Often, owners think that measuring the temperature of a cat is a useless and troublesome task. But sometimes it is better to suffer a little and do it than to miss the time to see a doctor.

Rectal temperature measurement method

The rectal (anal) foramen is the first foramen under the tail of the cat.

The picture shows where the rectal opening is located in cats.

How to measure temperature rectally:

1. Read carefully the instructions supplied with the thermometer.
2. Choose a time when your cat is calm.
3. Take a thin blanket (towel, blanket), wrap the cat, leaving only the tail and head open.
4. Lubricate the tip of the thermometer with cream.
5. Enter the thermometer into anus cats (1-1.5 cm).
6. Tilt the thermometer slightly (should touch the rectal mucosa).
7. Wait for a special signal.
8. Take out the thermometer.
9. Determine the temperature.
10. Wash the thermometer.
11. Praise, treat the cat.

Perform all steps carefully, gently persuading the cat.

Video: how to measure the temperature of a cat with a mercury thermometer

Determination of temperature with an infrared device

You can measure your cat's temperature using an infrared thermometer. To make measurements with an ear instrument:

1. Read the instructions that came with your infrared thermometer.
2. Hold the cat's head.
3. Point the thermometer at the animal's ear.
4. Wait for the signal.
5. Take out the thermometer.
6. Determine the temperature.
7. Wipe down the thermometer.

An ear thermometer does not bother the cat

Despite the existence of modern thermometers for measuring body temperature, in practice, veterinary clinics use ordinary mercury thermometers and, according to the owners, do not stand on ceremony with pets. Typically, the temperature measurement is accompanied by a pre-vaccination examination. Such a procedure at home is a useful thing, but, fortunately, it has to be done very rarely.

When starting a mustachioed pet, you need to be prepared not only for joyful moments, but also for the fact that a four-legged friend may need help. Measuring a cat's temperature is not an easy procedure. But every owner should know how to carry it out. To be able to quickly measure the temperature, to have a general idea of ​​the features of thermoregulation of cats is necessary in order to help your pet in time if it gets sick.

Having turned out to be the happy owner of a fluffy lump, you need to learn a lot about it: the nuances in behavior and feeding, first aid in case of discomfort . In the latter case, the determination of the body temperature of the cat plays an important role.

Optimal temperature readings for a domestic cat

Before you take a kitten, you need to know a lot about him.

The body temperature of a cat, like that of other living things, is the first and very important indicator of its health. To maintain it at the proper level, many systems and organs are involved: the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and the central nervous system. And even at the present time, scientists have not been able to fully figure out how this complex process proceeds.

In a healthy, active cat, the criterion for the norm is a temperature of 37.5-39 ° C.

However, there is a small nuance - each individual animal has its own, individual indicator, and the owner must know its meaning.

The normal temperature for a cat is 37.5-39 degrees.

This is necessary so that when visiting a veterinary clinic, a specialist can correctly diagnose and prescribe treatment. Let's say for one cat the normal temperature is 39 ° C, and for another, of the same breed, 38 ° C. The difference is insignificant - only one degree, but it can be decisive.

The veterinarian may decide that 39 ° C is an overestimate for your pet and indicates an inflammatory process, although this is an absolute norm for her. And, conversely, he will consider this temperature indicator to be quite natural, but for a cat with a normal temperature for her of 37.5 ° C, it will be an alarming factor.

For this reason, it is necessary not to be lazy, and when she is completely healthy, playful and well-behaved.

The temperature of the cat should be measured when it is feeling well.

Interestingly, the body temperature of hairless cat breeds is no different from their fluffier breeds, despite the fact that when you touch their unprotected skin, they can seem much hotter.

This indicator is absolutely the same for all breeds of cats, whether they are Sphynxes, British, Persians or ordinary mongrel baleen-tailed cats.

Normal temperature deviation

After active games, the cat's body temperature rises.

Temperature deviation during the day by 0.5 ° C is considered normal: in the morning it is slightly lower, and in the evening it rises slightly.

The value also depends on the activity of the animal: at rest, the temperature is normal, and after active games or excitement it increases.

Body temperature in kittens

The body temperature of kittens is slightly higher than that of adult cats.

Kittens are another matter! All organs and tissues of these babies are in a state of enhanced growth, and the thermoregulation system still cannot boast of coherence. Therefore, the body temperature of kittens is slightly higher than that of adults, and is considered normal in the range of 39-39.5 ° C. It decreases and becomes constantly around the third month of a kitten's life. However, for every host great importance has an individual indicator of his pet!

Temperature after spaying a cat

After spaying and neutering, the cat's temperature drops.

After undergoing sterilization and castration operations, the body temperature of a cat may drop.

This is considered the norm and indicates the transferred anesthesia, stress, a decrease in pressure as a result of taking drugs... The animal needs to be warmed by placing its bedding in a warm place or wrapping it up with a blanket.

After sterilization in a cat, during the first three days, it can be observed, which is also allowed. However, if the temperature does not decrease for a long time, it is necessary to consult a veterinarian, as it may be a sign of an infection in the body or the development of an inflammation focus.

How to measure a cat's temperature

To measure the temperature of a cat, a thermometer is used, which is inserted into the anus of the animal.

To measure temperature in cats, a mercury rectal thermometer is traditionally used, which is inserted into the anus of the animal and held in an unchanged position for 3 minutes.

An ordinary "human" thermometer is not suitable for these purposes, since it is characterized by increased fragility and to obtain information it will have to be held not for 3, but for 10 minutes.

It is not surprising that cats endure such a procedure with great irritation, and therefore you need to prepare in advance for it and, if possible, carry it out with an assistant.

More convenient to use is digital analog mercury thermometer. Its modern models are capable of making measurements in just a few seconds.

Pets can avoid discomfort by using modern devices: an infrared ear thermometer or a non-contact thermometer. In the first case, the readings are obtained by contact of the device with the skin in the ear cavity. The procedure is completely painless and lasts a few seconds. The only contraindication is inflammation in the ears of the animal.

The most convenient for the owners and their pets is considered to be an infrared non-contact thermometer, which allows obtaining the necessary measurements only when the device touches the pet's body and after waiting 10 seconds. The device is accurate, and its error is only 0.3 ° C.

Critical temperature in cats

At a high temperature in a cat, you need to wrap it in a towel soaked in cold water and immediately go to the veterinary clinic!

A temperature rise of 1 ° C in a cat is already significant, and in this case an urgent consultation with a specialist is required.

When critically high rates- 40.5 ° C and above, it is necessary to wrap the pet in a towel soaked in cold water and wrung out, and urgently go to the veterinary clinic.

An equally alarming symptom is considered low temperature(37 ° C and below). As a rule, it appears with blood loss and severe hypothermia of the animal. But also its causes can be, heart, problems in the endocrine and nervous systems... In this case, the cat is wrapped in a blanket and immediately sent to the veterinarian.

Video on how to measure the temperature of a cat