Although they are feline animals, a cat's temperature can vary just like a human's. A normal temperature for a cat is around 100 to 102.5 degrees F.
From your question where you say that your cat's temperature is around 104, I would say that your cat has some kind of fever. If a cat's temperature starts to pass 104 then they will begin to be concerned. This could most likely be caused by infection, inflammation and pain. You should make an appointment to see your vet as soon as possible but if your cat's temperature rises above 106.5 then you should make an emergency appointment.
A fever in cats can sometimes be normal and even an important and beneficial response to bacteria. A higher temperature can stop the growth of certain bacteria and in fact improve a cat's immune system. However, a high temperature of 105 to 106 for more than one or two days can lead to severe dehydration, loss of appetite and even brain damage.
If you want to take your cat's temperature, then it is not advised that you use human ear thermometers as this is not a reliable method. This is because their calibration is not set correctly for cats and their ears are shaped differently to humans. The best and easiest way to take a cat's temperature is to take use a paediatric rectal glass or digital thermometer.
You will need two people in order to take your cat's temperature. The first person should hold the cat carefully but securely while the other inserts the thermometer. You must not rush this procedure, not let the cat make any sudden movements and really take it slowly. Wrapping the cat in a towel might help to stabilise them.
You should make sure that the thermometer is properly lubricated before you insert it. Normal thermometers should be left in their for two minutes and digital thermometers will beep when they are ready.
From your question where you say that your cat's temperature is around 104, I would say that your cat has some kind of fever. If a cat's temperature starts to pass 104 then they will begin to be concerned. This could most likely be caused by infection, inflammation and pain. You should make an appointment to see your vet as soon as possible but if your cat's temperature rises above 106.5 then you should make an emergency appointment.
A fever in cats can sometimes be normal and even an important and beneficial response to bacteria. A higher temperature can stop the growth of certain bacteria and in fact improve a cat's immune system. However, a high temperature of 105 to 106 for more than one or two days can lead to severe dehydration, loss of appetite and even brain damage.
If you want to take your cat's temperature, then it is not advised that you use human ear thermometers as this is not a reliable method. This is because their calibration is not set correctly for cats and their ears are shaped differently to humans. The best and easiest way to take a cat's temperature is to take use a paediatric rectal glass or digital thermometer.
You will need two people in order to take your cat's temperature. The first person should hold the cat carefully but securely while the other inserts the thermometer. You must not rush this procedure, not let the cat make any sudden movements and really take it slowly. Wrapping the cat in a towel might help to stabilise them.
You should make sure that the thermometer is properly lubricated before you insert it. Normal thermometers should be left in their for two minutes and digital thermometers will beep when they are ready.
