Normal body temperature for dogs and cats ranges between 99° and 102°F at rest. Strenuous exercise or stress can cause their temp to go up slightly but it should return to normal once they have calmed down. While a fever may not be dangerous by itself, it can point to more serious underlying problems. The list below gives various temperatures and what action to take for each one.
106° or higher EMERGENCY Call your vet now!
Cool you pet!
105° High fever Call your vet now
104° Moderate fever Call your vet same day
103° Moderate fever Call your vet same day
102° Normal range No action
101° Normal range No action
100° Normal range No action
99° Normal range No action
99° to 95° Mild Hypothermia Call your vet same day
Below 95° EMERGENCY Call your vet now!
Warm your pet!
You can take your pet’s temperature rectally, which is the old tried and true method (keep that thermometer separate from yours!), or you can purchase thermometers that get a reading using the animals ear, or, they now have no-contact thermometers for dogs available. If you choose the tried and true method, have someone help to pet the dog and distract him. Here’s how to do it:
- Shake down the mercury until it reads about 96°F.
- Lubricate the bulb tip with mineral oil, K-Y or petroleum jelly.
- Grasp the base of your pet’s tail and lift it up. Insert the thermometer about halfway. Keep a firm grip on the tail to prevent your pet from escaping or sitting down (ouch!). If possible, have your pet lie down on his side.
- After 3 minutes, remove the thermometer, wipe it clean and get the reading. Be sure to clean the thermometer with rubbing alcohol when finished.