It is very likely that we will not need to carry out this process, but if we are going to share life with one of these animals, it is convenient that we know how to measure the temperature at our cat It is a technique that will help us a lot when it comes to finding out if he is sick.
In this article on our site we will explain how to put a thermometer in a cat, what its normal temperature will be and what implications an increase or decrease in this parameter will have for its he alth. Do not forget that throughout the process you must create a comfortable environment to avoid stress in your feline.
normal cat temperature
Before explaining how to measure a cat's temperature, it is important that we know what its normal value is so that we can interpret the result of our measurement. Cats have a higher temperature than humans. It oscillates between 38 and 39.2 ºC
Of course, we must know that the temperature of baby cats is somewhat lower. At birth they are unable to control their body temperature and will acquire this function with age. In them, temperatures of 37 ºC can be considered normal and will rise in their first weeks of life. If our cat has a temperature of 37ºC and is an adult, we should pay attention to it, as it could end up in hypothermia.
Ideal room temperature for cats
A cat will feel comfortable in ambient temperatures similar to those that are also comfortable for humans. Just as we do, in cold weather he will look for the warmest places in the house, hence the popularity of hammocks for radiators. If this is our case, we are facing a situation in which how to measure a cat's temperature will be irrelevant, because it will easily exceed 39.2 ºC without assuming fever, only by direct contact with heat. If you feel comfortable, we don't have to move it. He will move himself when he feels hot
Another different situation occurs in the hot season, when temperatures rise excessively. The cat can suffer a heat strokeif he does not have cool and shaded places. On days like this, it is common to see them lying on tiled floors or even inside sinks or bathtubs. If they breathe with their mouths open it means that the heat is becoming excessive and we must take urgent measures, since heat stroke can be fatal.
Low temperature in cats
Next, we will explain how to measure a cat's temperature, but first it is important to know that, although we most often talk about fever, the truth is that a figure lower than the normal temperature of a cat can be just as dangerous. It is what is known as hypothermia in cats, a phenomenon that is due to various causes such as immersion in cold water, shock or inadequate environmental temperature in kittens you drink. In this state, the body uses up its stored energy and lowers the blood sugar level. In conclusion, the metabolism is reduced and the heart can stop This is a veterinary emergency.
High temperature in cats
Generally, caregivers want to know how to take a cat's temperature so they can tell when they have a fever. Elevated temperature or hyperthermia can appear in a very extensive list of diseases and, in many cases, will be accompanied by other symptoms that will guide the diagnosis. A cat with hyperthermia should be seen by a veterinarian. If we ask ourselves what temperature in cats is a fever, we can consider that that which exceeds 39.2 ºC
For more information on the causes, don't miss this other article: "Fever in cats".
How to take a cat's temperature?
The only way to know it is using a thermometer Therefore, it is false that the ears can determine the temperature of a cat. The nose is also not a reliable indicator. Therefore, it is important that we learn how to measure a cat's temperature with a thermometer like the one used for people.
The safest way is to wrap an arm around the cat against your chest and, with your hand, keep the tail and body elevated to prevent it from sitting. Meanwhile, with the other hand, insert the thermometer into the anus enough to cover the tip. We can lubricate it first with Vaseline.
This would be an idyllic situation, but in reality the cat is likely to resist. In that case, another person can help us or we can try wrapping the cat in a towel, revealing only the anal region. If it continues to be impossible, the vet will have to do it. Forcing can end up causing damage.
With the thermometer inserted we will only have to wait for the temperature to be displayed. We will remove it and disinfect it before storing it. Depending on the temperature recorded, we will have to go to the vet or not.
Below, we share a video from our site channel in which we show in a more visual way how to take a cat's temperature:
Sphynx cat body temperature
Once we have seen how to measure the temperature of a cat and what is the body temperature of a cat within its normal parameters, we stop at sphynx or sphinx cat , a breed without hair or, better said, with a short and fine hair. These animals will need more energy to maintain their body temperature, which may even be somewhat higher than that of the furry breeds. For this, it is important that we offer them good care based on a fundamental pillar of quality food that can cover all their needs.
In addition, it is important that we monitor extreme temperatures, as they are sensitive to change. With direct heat they could even suffer burns, hence the recommendation that it be a breed that is kept exclusively indoors.
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