Cat Fever: Symptoms, Causes and When to See a Vet | Shivraj Pet Clinic & Lab, Pune

Fever is the body's response to infection or inflammation. In cats it often shows up as a quiet, hiding cat who has stopped eating, not as obvious shivering. Because cats hide illness so well, a fever is a clear signal that something needs attention.

What is a normal temperature for a cat?

A healthy cat's rectal temperature is roughly 38.0–39.2 °C (100.5–102.5 °F). Mild stress, such as a car journey or a clinic visit, can push it a little higher.

Above 39.5 °C: fever
Above 40.5 °C: high fever, which needs prompt treatment
Below 37.5 °C in a sick cat: a serious sign, which can mean shock

Warm ears, a dry nose or a warm belly are not reliable guides. The only accurate home method is a digital thermometer used rectally with a little petroleum jelly, held for about a minute. Many cats won't allow this. If yours struggles, stop and let us check it.

Signs of fever in cats

Lethargy, sleeping much more, hiding
Not eating, or eating much less
Not grooming, so the coat looks unkempt
Faster breathing or a faster heart rate
Shivering, or seeking warm places
Sitting hunched with fur slightly raised

Common causes

Bite abscesses. Very common in cats who go out, or who fight with strays from a society colony. A small puncture from another cat's tooth seals over, and an abscess forms under the skin within a few days. The cat runs a fever and may limp or have a soft, painful swelling. Abscesses need draining and antibiotics.

Cat flu (upper respiratory infection). Herpesvirus or calicivirus: sneezing, eye and nose discharge, mouth ulcers.

Feline panleukopenia. In unvaccinated kittens and young cats: fever (sometimes followed by a low temperature), vomiting, diarrhoea and a very low white cell count. This is an emergency.

Other infections: urinary or kidney infection, pyothorax (pus in the chest), uterine infection in unspayed females, blood parasites spread by fleas, and FIP (a persistent fever that doesn't respond to antibiotics).

Inflammation: pancreatitis, some cancers, and immune problems.

What not to do

Never give paracetamol (Crocin, Dolo, Calpol) to a cat. Cats can't break it down. A single tablet can destroy red blood cells and the liver and can kill. Aspirin, ibuprofen and nimesulide are also dangerous. Don't use leftover antibiotics either: they hide signs without treating the real cause.

When to come in

Fever with not eating for more than 24 hours (sooner for kittens)
Any fever in a kitten, especially with vomiting or diarrhoea
A swelling, limp or wound after a fight
Laboured or open-mouth breathing
A fever that comes back after treatment

What we do

We examine the cat thoroughly, check the temperature, and look for a source: wounds, mouth ulcers, the abdomen, and the chest sounds. A CBC and biochemistry in our in-house lab (about 15–20 minutes) show whether there's a bacterial infection, a virus like panleukopenia, or organ involvement. Abscesses are drained and flushed. Treatment then targets the cause, not just the temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cool my cat down with a wet towel?
For fever from infection, don't try to cool your cat aggressively at home. Fever is part of fighting infection. Heatstroke is different: in that case, cool with room-temperature water and come straight in.

Do kittens get fever after vaccination?
A mild temperature and sleepiness for a day can happen. Vomiting, swelling of the face, or breathing difficulty after a vaccine needs immediate attention.

My cat's fever went down with an injection but she still isn't eating. Is that normal?
No. If appetite doesn't return, the underlying cause may still be active. Bring her back for a recheck.