Pet Fever: Signs, Comfort Tips & Vet Prep

Your furry friend isn’t acting like their usual playful self. They’re lethargic, warm to the touch, maybe not eating—and your gut tells you something’s off. Fever in pets can be a sign of underlying infection, inflammation, or illness. While a vet visit is always recommended, there are several steps you can take immediately to comfort your pet and monitor their condition.

In this guide, we’ll explore how to identify a fever in pets, what to do before the vet arrives, and which signs should never be ignored.

How to Tell If Your Pet Has a Fever

Unlike humans, you can't tell if a pet has a fever just by feeling their nose. A dog or cat’s normal body temperature is between 101°F to 102.5°F (38.3°C to 39.2°C). Anything above 103°F (39.4°C) is considered a fever.

Common Signs of Fever in Pets:

• Lethargy or weakness
• Shivering or trembling
• Loss of appetite
• Warm ears or paws
• Coughing or vomiting
• Nasal discharge
• Dehydration

Step 1: Take Their Temperature (If Possible)

If your pet allows it and you're comfortable doing so, take their temperature using a digital rectal thermometer designed for pets. Apply petroleum jelly and gently insert about 1 inch. Wait for the beep and record the temperature.

Step 2: Keep Your Pet Comfortable

While waiting for the vet or heading to the clinic, help manage your pet’s fever by creating a calm, cool environment.

Tips to Comfort a Pet with a Fever:

• Use a fan or A/C to cool the room
• Gently pat paws, armpits, and groin with lukewarm water
• Offer cool water (don’t force it)
• Lay them on cool tile or a cooling mat

Step 3: Monitor for Emergency Symptoms

Some fevers resolve on their own, but others can signal serious issues like infection or heatstroke.

Seek Emergency Vet Care If:

• Temperature is above 104°F (40°C)
• Seizures or unresponsiveness
• Excessive vomiting or diarrhea
• Difficulty breathing

Step 4: Prepare for the Vet Visit

Bring helpful details to assist diagnosis:

• Temperature reading (if taken)
• When symptoms began
• Diet or routine changes
• Contact with other animals
• Medical & vaccination history

Step 5: Aftercare & Recovery Tips

Once diagnosed and treated, support healing at home:

• Follow prescribed meds exactly
• Provide a quiet, cozy recovery space
• Ensure constant access to water
• Watch for recurring symptoms
• Complete the full course of antibiotics