🔍 What Is a Fever?

Feline normal body temperature ranges from 100°F – 102.5°F (37.8°C–39.2°C). Any reading above 102.5°F signals fever. Mild fevers (102.5–103°F) may be benign, but moderate (103–104.5°F) and high fevers (>104.5°F) can damage tissues—and >106°F is life-threatening :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.

👀 Signs You Cannot Ignore

• Lethargy, hiding, low energy
• Reduced appetite or refusal to eat/drink
• Warm ears/nose, dry gums
• Shivering or tremors
• Increased respiratory or heart rate
• Dehydration—sticky gums, skin tenting
• Secondary signs depend on cause: sneezing, vomiting, limping, or discharges :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

🧭 Why Do Cats Get Fevers?

• Infections: Viral (URIs, calicivirus, herpesvirus), bacterial (abscesses, UTIs), fungal, or parasitic (toxoplasmosis, cytauxzoonosis) :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.
• Inflammation/trauma: Injury, wounds, pancreatitis.
• Immune-driven: Autoimmune, vaccine reaction.
• Metabolic/endocrine: Hyperthyroidism, Addison’s disease.
• Cancer: Especially lymphoma and systemic conditions :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.
• Drug reactions/toxins: Certain medications can trigger fever.
• Fever of unknown origin (FUO): Persistent fever needing thorough evaluation :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.

🏠 At‑Home Fever Detection & Care

1. Use a digital rectal thermometer with lubrication. Never use human NSAIDs or acetaminophen—cats are highly sensitive :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.
2. Provide a warm, quiet environment without drafts.
3. Encourage hydration (wet food, broth, fresh water).
4. Offer gentle meals (bland or prescription diets). Monitor for eating/drinking.
5. Track temperature trends; if fever >104°F or lasts >24 hrs, it's critical to contact the vet :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}.

🚨 When to See the Vet Immediately

• Fever >104.5°F
• Lethargy, seizure, collapse
• Persistent vomiting/diarrhea, inappetence, dehydration
• Signs of respiratory distress, bleeding, or neurological deficits
• Fever in kittens, seniors or immunocompromised cats

🔬 Veterinary Diagnostic Work‑Up

1. Full physical and temperature charting
2. Bloodwork (CBC, chemistry, thyroid levels, infectious disease screening) :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
3. Urinalysis and cultures
4. Imaging (X‑rays, ultrasound, CT/MRI) depending on suspected cause
5. Specific tests (e.g., PCR for calicivirus, toxoplasmosis, fungal serology)
6. Biopsy or aspirates for tumors or lymphadenopathy

💉 Vet‑Led Treatment Plans

• Supportive care: IV/subQ fluids, warmth, oxygen if needed
• Medications: Antibiotics, antifungals, antivirals, steroids per diagnosis
• Pain & anti‑inflammation: Cat‑safe NSAIDs or steroids under vet supervision :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
• Treat underlying disease: Insulin, thyroid meds, cancer therapy
• Toxin or bite wound care: Anti‑venom, antibiotics, debridement
• Monitor FUO: Reassess frequently until cause is found

📋 Case Study: “Luna” with Cytauxzoonosis

Signs: High fever (~106°F), anorexia, lethargy.
Diagnostics: Blood smear and PCR confirmed parasitic protozoan.
Treatment: Antiprotozoal therapy, IV fluids, antibiotics.
Outcome: Fever dropped within 48 hrs; full recovery after 10 days.

✅ Prevention & Long‑Term Health

• Keep vaccinations up to date (FVRCP, FeLV).
• Use year‑round parasite control (fleas, ticks).
• Feed high‑quality nutrition, maintain ideal weight.
• Limit toxin exposure at home.
• Keep regular vet wellness exams—annual labs, appropriate imaging.
• Use Ask A Vet app to monitor, track, and share data with your vet between visits.

🌟 Why Vet‑Led Care & Home Support Matter in 2025

Combining veterinary expertise with home‑based tools provides optimal support:

• Ask A Vet app: Record home temperature trends, upload symptoms like lethargy or appetite changes, and get fast guidance.
• Woopf wellness tools: Smart cat thermometers, heated bedding, humidifiers for respiratory support.
• Purrz nutritional supplements: Hydration powders, gut‑health formulas, antioxidants to support recovery.

This integrated approach ensures prompt detection, tailored therapies, and faster recovery—keeping your cat safe, comfortable, and well in 2025 and beyond. 🐾