It is very likely that we do 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 of our cat. It is a technique that will help us a lot when it comes to finding out if you are sick.
In this article we will explain how to put a thermometer on a cat, what its normal temperature will be and what implications an increase or decrease in this parameter will have for its health. Do not forget that throughout the process you must create a comfortable environment to avoid stress in your feline.
Normal temperature of a cat
Before explaining how to measure the temperature to a cat 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 ranges 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 increase in their first weeks of life. If our cat has a temperature of 37 ºC and is an adult, we must 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 comforting to people. As we do, in cold seasons it 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 the temperature of a cat will be irrelevant, because it will easily exceed 39.2 ºC without causing a fever, only due to direct contact with heat. If it is comfortable we do not have to move it. He will move himself when he feels hot.
Another different situation occurs in the warm season, when temperatures rise excessively. The cat can suffer a heat stroke if it 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, the heat is being excessive and we must adopt urgent measures, since heatstroke can be fatal.
Low temperature in cats
Next, we will explain how to measure the temperature of a cat, but first it is relevant to know that, although we talk about fever more often, the truth is that a figure lower than the normal temperature of a cat can be just as dangerous. This is what is known as hypothermia in cats, a phenomenon that is due to various causes such as immersion in cold water, shock or an inappropriate room temperature in baby kittens. In this state, the body consumes its stored energy and lowers the level of sugar in the blood. 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 measure a cat’s temperature so they can detect when it has a fever. High temperature or hypothermia can appear in a very broad list of diseases and, in most cases, it will be accompanied by other symptoms that are going to guide the diagnosis. A hypodermic cat should be seen by a veterinarian. If we ask ourselves what temperature in cats is a fever, we can consider that one that exceeds 39.2 ºC.
How to take a cat’s temperature?
The only way to know it is by using a thermometer. Therefore, it is false that the temperature of a cat can be determined by the ears. The nose is also not a reliable indicator. Therefore, it is important that we learn how to measure the temperature of a cat with a thermometer like the one used for people.
The safest way is to surround the cat with an arm against our chest and, with the hand, keep the tail and the body elevated to prevent it from sitting. Meanwhile, with the other hand, we introduce the thermometer in the anus enough to cover the tip. We can lubricate it before 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 this is still 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 registered, we will have to go to the vet or not.
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 the sphynx or sphinx cat, a breed without hair or, rather, with 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 hairy breeds. For this, it is important that we offer them good care based on being 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 changes. With direct heat they could even suffer burns, hence the recommendation that it be a breed that is kept exclusively indoors.
