A cat or dog’s normal temperature is between 100.5 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. Nervousness and exercise raise body temperature as will excess heat and infections. Temperatures below normal are caused by exposure to cold weather but also by shock. When possible use a digital thermometer. They are accurate and easy to read.
Temperature Range
| °F | °C | Action |
| 106+ | 41+ | cool down immediately and see us |
| 105 | 40.6 | see us |
| 104 | 40 | call us |
| 103 | 39.4 | call us |
| 102 | 38.9 | normal |
| 101 | 38.3 | normal |
| 100 | 37.8 | normal |
| 99 | 37.2 | call us |
| 98 | 36.7 | keep warm and see us |
- Lubricate the thermometer with K-Y jelly before inserting with a slight rotating action in your pet’s rectum.
- Hold the thermometer and the base of your pet’s tail and wait 90 seconds.
- Disinfect the thermometer after use.
- Don’t try to take your pet’s temperature if it finds it distressing.