Your pet cat is likely a big part of your family. You want your feline friend to be happy, healthy and safe but sometimes your cat will get a fever. When you notice your kitty isn't feeling the greatest, there are some things you can do at home to help her.
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Temperature
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Cats' core body temperatures are naturally hotter than humans. Normal ranges are over 100 degrees F. However, if your cat is running a fever higher than 104 degrees F, it is best to watch him very closely and probably go to the vet. If his temperature reaches 106 degrees F, take him immediately. Check his temperature a couple of times a day to make sure it's not too high if he's exhibiting signs that something is wrong, like not being as active or sleeping more. Make sure he is drinking water and has constant access to fresh water.
Dehydration
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The fever may come and go over a period of several days. Just as with humans, fever is usually a sign of the body fighting off infection. This is normal. The important thing is to keep your kitty comfortable, warm and dry, and prevent dehydration. Make sure she is eating and drinking. Keep her in the house. If you happen to notice she's not drinking as much, or anything, try giving her tuna for some moisture, or force feed her a couple of drops of water with an unused eyedropper or medicine applicator at least once or twice an hour. If your cat gets dehydrated, you may need to take her to the vet for treatment, such as a saline mixture administered intravenously. To check for dehydration, gently pull her skin back near her neck. If it snaps back she's hydrated. If it stays there, or very slowly falls back into place, she is dehydrated. Unfortunately, there isn't much you can do for your cat's fever other than keeping her comfortable and hydrated. Fevers will usually work themselves out.
Medication
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It is extremely important that you do not give your cat medication for humans or dogs. Aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen and other over-the-counter medicines are toxic to cats and will likely kill your cat. The only medicine you should administer is under your vet's instruction and supervision. The vet will try to find the cause of the fever and treat that illness if it does not go away on it's own. If your cat's fever persists for more than a couple of weeks, take him to the vet.
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