Is a cat with hot ears a fever?

Just because your cat's ears feel warm doesn't necessarily mean they have a fever. A cat's normal body temperature range is usually between 38 and 39.2 degrees Celsius, and may fluctuate slightly. When your cat's ears feel warm when you touch them, it could be due to the following reasons:

1. Ambient temperature: Cat’s ears can regulate body temperature by dissipating heat. When the ambient temperature is higher, your cat's ears can feel warmer.

2. Activity or excitement: When a cat is active or excited, its metabolism will speed up and its body temperature may rise slightly, causing the ears to feel hot.

3. Blood circulation: Cat’s ears have a rich blood supply, so sometimes the ears will feel slightly warmer than other parts.

However, if you suspect your cat has a fever or other unusual symptoms, it's best to take your cat's temperature to confirm the diagnosis. Use a digital thermometer to gently insert it about 1 to 2 centimeters into your cat's anus, hold it there for a few seconds, and then read the temperature. If your cat's body temperature exceeds 39.2 degrees Celsius, it may indicate a fever.

Fever may be a sign of infection or other health problem in the body, at which point a veterinarian should be consulted for further evaluation and treatment recommendations. Your veterinarian can use your cat's symptoms, temperature, and other test results to determine if a health problem exists and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Do not self-medicate your cat, as some human medications are toxic to cats. Only your veterinarian can recommend appropriate medical treatment.

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