Just like humans, cats can also experience fever, indicated by a hot body. Fever in cats occurs when their body temperature rises above the normal range. Normally, a cat's body temperature ranges between 100°F and 102.5°F (37.8°C to 39.2°C). However, when a cat's body temperature reaches above 103.5°F (39.7°C) and lasts for several days without a clear cause, it may indicate a fever that should be taken seriously.
Understanding the Symptoms of Fever in Cats
Causes of Fever in Cats
When a cat has a fever or a hot body, as owners, we need to be alert and think about how to treat it. Fever in cats is a common symptom, but it can also be a sign of a serious and even fatal disease that could affect our cats.
To properly respond and treat a feverish cat, here are some common causes you should know:
Viral infections
Upper respiratory tract infections
Severe dental infections
Tumors
Injuries, such as from fighting or accidents
Side effects of certain medications
Symptoms of Fever in Cats
When a cat has a fever, they will show several symptoms to watch out for, including:
Loss of appetite and thirst: Cats with a fever usually lose their appetite, possibly due to changes in their metabolism caused by the fever, which reduces their desire to eat.
Lethargy: Healthy cats are typically active and lively, but feverish cats tend to become sluggish and less active.
Increased sleep: Cats need sleep to recharge their energy, but when they have a fever, they tend to sleep even more than usual.
Fever is one of the symptoms seen in cats infected with the FIP virus. In addition to fever, cats will often exhibit other signs such as:
Weight loss
Stiffness in joints and balance issues
Respiratory problems
Enlarged abdomen
Ocular symptoms (eye issues)
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
Anemia
Urinary tract issues
If any of these symptoms occur, you should contact your vet to schedule an appointment. Diagnosing Fever in Cats
When your cat has a fever along with other symptoms, it’s important to take them to a vet for an examination. The vet will typically:
Check your cat's body temperature
Perform a thorough physical examination
Review your cat's medical history
If the fever persists for a long time with unclear causes, it could be due to a viral infection, such as FIP in cats.
To confirm the diagnosis, tests like the FCOV AB test, Rivalta test (if there is fluid buildup), and blood tests (hematology and biochemistry) may be needed. Based on the results, the vet will diagnose the type of FIP and recommend the appropriate treatment with Basmi FIP.
Treating Fever in Cats
To treat a fever in cats, vets will recommend treatments based on the underlying cause. It’s crucial to remember never to give your cat medication for fever without a vet’s guidance, as certain medications can be toxic to cats.
Appropriate Treatment If Diagnosed with FIP
If your cat is diagnosed with FIP, consult your vet to obtain GS-441524 from Basmi FIP, a proven effective treatment for feline FIP. GS-441524 is an antiviral developed by Dr. Niels Pedersen in his research to cure FIP in cats.
This medication has undergone clinical trials and has been shown to be very effective in curing cats infected with FIP. The efficacy of GS-441524 treatment exceeds 87%, offering new hope to cat owners fighting against FIP.
Also read: Why Do Cats Get FIP?
Conclusion
Fever in cats can be a sign of a serious illness and should be taken seriously. Cat owners should monitor symptoms like loss of appetite, lethargy, and increased sleep. If a cat experiences prolonged fever along with other suspicious symptoms, it’s crucial to bring them to a vet for proper diagnosis and treatment. Treating a fever in cats must be done under a vet's guidance, especially if FIP is diagnosed.
If your cat shows signs of FIP, it’s important to take them to the vet for a proper diagnosis and treatment. For further consultation on FIP virus and its treatment, you can contact Basmi FIP INDIA via whatsapp or visit their Instagram page. You can also read the complete guide on handling FIP in cats by clicking here.
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