What to Do If Your Cat Has a Fever: Symptoms, Temperature Checks, and Home Care

A Complete Guide to Cat Fever: When to Worry and How to Help Your Feline Feel Better

Cats are masters at hiding pain and illness, which makes spotting a fever more challenging than you’d expect. But a fever is often your cat’s way of signaling that something’s wrong—whether it’s an infection, inflammation, or something more serious.

This guide will help you understand:

What temperature is considered a fever in cats?
How to safely take your cat’s temperature at home
Common causes and signs of fever in cats
What to do if your cat has a fever
When it’s time to see the vet

What Is a Normal Temperature for Cats?

A healthy cat’s normal body temperature ranges from 100.4°F to 102.5°F (38.0°C – 39.2°C). Anything above that may indicate a fever.

Fever temperature levels in cats:

Mild fever: 102.6°F – 103.8°F (39.3°C – 39.9°C)
Moderate fever: 103.9°F – 104.9°F (40.0°C – 40.5°C)
High fever (danger zone): Over 105°F (40.5°C)

If your cat’s temperature exceeds 105°F, seek veterinary care immediately.

Signs Your Cat Might Have a Fever

Some cats show obvious symptoms when they have a fever, while others may just seem a little “off.” Here are some common signs to watch for:

Behavioral changes:

Lethargy or sleeping more than usual
Decreased or no appetite
Hiding or avoiding interaction
Changes in vocalization (lower meows or silence)

Physical symptoms:

Dry, warm nose
Hot ears or paw pads
Fast breathing
Shivering or chills
Messy, unkempt fur

Additional warning signs:

Vomiting or diarrhea
Runny eyes or nose
Swollen lymph nodes
Wobbly walking or trouble moving

How to Take Your Cat’s Temperature at Home

1. Best method: Rectal thermometer

This is the most accurate way to check your cat’s body temperature.

What you’ll need:

Digital rectal thermometer (preferably pet-safe)
Petroleum jelly or water-based lubricant
Disposable gloves
Alcohol wipes for cleaning
A towel or someone to help gently restrain your cat

Steps:

Gently wrap your cat in a towel (like a burrito) to prevent scratching or struggling.
Apply a small amount of lubricant to the thermometer tip.
Lift your cat’s tail and gently insert the thermometer into the rectum (about 1 inch).
Hold steady until it beeps, then remove and read the result.
Disinfect the thermometer after use.

If your cat resists strongly or you feel unsure, it’s best to let a vet handle it.

2. Alternative: Ear thermometers or forehead scanners

These may give you a rough idea but are generally less accurate for cats.

Why Do Cats Get Fevers? Common Causes

A fever is not a disease—it’s a symptom. The most common causes include:

Cause	Description
Viral infections	Feline herpesvirus, calicivirus, panleukopenia
Bacterial infections	Dental abscesses, respiratory infections, wounds
Parasites	Internal parasites, blood parasites
Post-vaccination	Mild fever for 1–2 days after vaccines is common
Toxins or foreign objects	Ingesting spoiled food, plants, or non-food items
Autoimmune disorders	Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), immune response issues
Stress or surgery	High stress, recent surgery, or spaying/neutering

What to Do If Your Cat Has a Fever

If your cat’s temperature is slightly elevated (under 104°F), and they are still alert, you may monitor at home for 24 hours.

✅ Home care tips:

Provide a quiet, comfortable space for rest
Keep your cat hydrated—offer fresh water or use a syringe if needed
Use a damp cloth to wipe ears or paws for mild cooling
Avoid sudden temperature changes (like fans or AC directly on them)
Never give human medications (Tylenol, ibuprofen, aspirin are toxic to cats!)

❌ Avoid:

Giving human fever reducers
Forcing food if the cat refuses
Cold baths or ice packs—can cause shock

When to See the Vet Immediately

Seek emergency veterinary care if your cat shows any of the following:

Temperature over 105°F
Fever lasting more than 24 hours
Weakness or collapse
Seizures or difficulty breathing
Vomiting, diarrhea, or dehydration
Refusing to eat or drink
Kittens, elderly cats, or cats with chronic illness showing fever

How Do Vets Treat Fever in Cats?

Veterinary treatment depends on the underlying cause. Your vet may:

Treatment	Purpose
Antibiotics or antivirals	For bacterial or viral infections
IV fluids	To rehydrate and support body function
Anti-inflammatory medication	For fever and pain control
Lab work and imaging	To find the root cause
Hospitalization	For severe or high-risk cases

How to Prevent Fevers in Cats

Here are some proactive steps to help prevent your cat from getting sick:

✅ Keep up with vaccinations and deworming
✅ Feed high-quality, balanced food
✅ Ensure clean water and litter boxes
✅ Minimize stress and maintain a calm environment
✅ Avoid contact with unknown animals
✅ Schedule regular vet checkups

Final Thoughts: Don’t Ignore the Signs

Fever in cats is usually a sign that something serious is brewing. If you notice changes in your cat’s energy, appetite, or body heat—don’t ignore it.