It is not enough just to feel your cat's ears and think it is running a temperature. You really have to find your cat's internal body temperature to find out for certain. This is done by inserting a thermometer into the back passage. A normal cat's temperature is higher than ours being 38-39.2°C.
Some cats will let you take their temperature at home, especially big, placid neutered males, but you may have problems with feisty females. I would not recommend taking a kitten's temperature as they are too tiny and you might hurt them. If you do want to take your cat's temperature at home you should use a digital thermometer as a glass one could break inside your cat's back passage if he struggles.
For obvious reasons most cats hate having their temperatures taken, so it is easier if you get someone to hold the cat calmly in a standing position.
- make sure the thermometer is registering zero
- lubricate well with Vaseline jelly
- hold the cat's tail with one hand and insert it at least one inch into the anus. If you feel resistance gently pull back the thermometer and try again
- wait one minute until the thermometer bleeps
- once finished wipe the thermometer clean with mild antiseptic
If your cat has diarrhoea or is stressed you may also get a false high reading.
A high temperature could mean your cat has an infection or inflammation. A temperature below normal is equally serious - your cat could be in shock, suffering from anaemia or a viral infection. In both cases seek veterinary advice promptly.
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