How to Take a Cat's Temperature Safely and What the Numbers Mean

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 20, 20264 min read

A cat's body temperature is a quick window into health. A fever can signal infection, inflammation or heatstroke, and a low temperature can signal shock. Knowing how to take a reading, and when to seek help, is a useful skill. See also how to check your cat's vital signs.

Normal and abnormal values

• Normal: about 100.5 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit (38.1 to 39.2 Celsius).
• Mild fever: 103 to 104. Call your vet.
• High fever: above 104. Emergency.
• Heatstroke range: above 105. Emergency. See cat heatstroke signs and treatment.
• Low temperature: below 99. Call a vet. Below 97 is an emergency.

Excitement and stress may raise temperature slightly.

Why temperature matters

Fever is a sign that the body is fighting something, such as infection, inflammation, cancer or immune disease. Cats with fever often hide, eat less and sleep more. See cat fever signs and causes. Low temperature may come with shock, kidney failure, cold exposure or serious illness.

What you need

• A digital rectal thermometer with a flexible tip, used only for pets.
• Water-based lubricant, such as petroleum jelly or a lubricant gel.
• Treats.
• A towel.
• A helper, if possible.
• Disinfectant wipes.

Glass mercury thermometers are unsafe. Forehead thermometers do not work on cats.

How to take a rectal temperature

1. Prepare. Shake or reset the thermometer, and lubricate the tip.
2. Position the cat. Have a helper hold the cat gently, standing or on its side, or place the cat on a counter. Wrapping in a towel may help.
3. Lift the tail. Hold it up and to the side.
4. Insert gently. Slide the tip about one inch into the rectum, with a slight twist, angled toward the spine. Never force.
5. Hold still until the thermometer beeps, usually under a minute.
6. Remove and read.
7. Clean the thermometer with soap and alcohol.
8. Reward your cat.

If the cat struggles hard, stop. A struggling cat can be injured. Ask your vet for a demonstration.

Alternative methods

• Ear thermometers made for pets are quick, but accuracy varies, and ear infection or wax affects readings.
• Feeling the ears or nose is unreliable.
• Vet clinics can take a reading quickly and safely.

Signs a cat may have a fever

• Lethargy, weakness.
• Reduced appetite.
• Hiding, or seeking cool places.
• Warm ears and paws.
• Rapid breathing.
• Shivering.
• Dehydration.

What to do with a fever

• Call your vet. Do not wait long.
• Keep the cat comfortable, with water and a cool, quiet place.
• Do not use cold baths or ice.
• Never give human medicines. Paracetamol and ibuprofen are toxic. See cat poisoning: what to do.
• Note other signs, such as vomiting, diarrhea or discharge.

When it is an emergency

Go to a vet right away if:

• Temperature is above 104 or below 97.
• Your cat has trouble breathing, collapses or is unresponsive.
• There is repeated vomiting or bloody stool.
• The cat has not eaten for a day.
• A kitten or senior cat has a fever.

See cat emergency warning signs.

Keep a first aid kit

A pet thermometer should be in your kit. See cat first aid kit.

Training for easy temps

Practice gentle handling of the tail and hindquarters with treats, so the cat gets used to it. See helping a cat who hates the vet.

Senior and kitten cases

Very young and old cats lose heat quickly, and may not mount a fever. See senior cat care guide.

Frequently asked questions

Can I take a cat's temperature by mouth? No. How long does it take? Under a minute with a digital thermometer. What if my cat will not let me? Do not force. Take the cat to a vet. Do cats have fevers with vaccines? Mild, short-lived fevers can occur after vaccines, but call your vet if it is high or lasts. How often should I check? Only when your cat seems unwell, or as your vet advises.

Recording and sharing results

Write the temperature, time and any signs in your phone, and share with your vet. If your cat is on medication, ask whether to check regularly.

Safety notes

Never force a thermometer, and do not use a glass or mercury type. If the cat is very ill, weak or cold, do not delay for a temperature, since the vet can take it faster and safely. Wash your hands after the procedure. Keep the thermometer in a labeled case so that it is not used for people.

Tips for nervous cats

Try when the cat is sleepy or after a meal. Keep the room quiet, and talk softly. A towel burrito can reduce wriggling. Two short tries are better than one long struggle. If your cat will not cooperate, ask your vet to teach you, or rely on observation and a vet visit.

When to see a vet

See a vet for any abnormal temperature. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.