How to tell if your dog has a fever & how to treat it?

Nothing is more worrying than when your beloved pet isn’t feeling well. If you suspect that your dog has a fever, it’s important to take action fast. While there are cues you can look for, such as shivering and loss of appetite, not all signs will be obvious and it’s crucial to understand what the proper steps are in terms of diagnosis and treatment. In this blog post, we explain how to tell if your dog has a fever as well as what you should do if they appear sick so that you can help them get better quickly.

What is fever?

Fever is a symptom of an underlying illness or infection and is typically characterized by a body temperature that is higher than normal. In dogs, the average body temperature should be between 100.5°F – 102.5°F (38°C – 39°C). If your pet’s temperature rises above this range, it can be an indication of a fever.

What causes a fever in dogs?

• Infection: Bacterial, viral and parasitic infections can all lead to a fever in dogs.
• Inflammatory diseases: Certain medical conditions such as allergies and autoimmune disorders can cause inflammation which may result in a fever.
• Tumors or cancer: If your pup has been diagnosed with cancer or a tumor, they may have a fever due to the associated inflammation.

How to tell if your dog has a fever?

If your dog is experiencing a fever, you may notice some or all of the following signs:

• Elevated body temperature: The most obvious sign of a fever is an elevated body temperature. You can take your pet’s temperature with a digital thermometer rectally, although you may need to enlist the help of a vet due to this being an invasive procedure.
• Shivering: Dogs that are suffering from a fever may start to shiver as their bodies struggle to maintain a normal temperature.
• Lethargy: If your dog is feeling unwell, they will likely be more lethargic than usual and may not want to move around or play like they usually do.
• Loss of appetite: A fever can cause loss of appetite in dogs, so if your pet is not eating their usual meals and snacks, this could be a sign of illness.
• Difficulty breathing: Fever can cause labored or shallow breaths and panting, particularly in puppies who are more prone to respiratory issues.
• Changes in behavior: If your dog appears to be disoriented or has an altered mental state, this could be due to their fever.

By understanding how to tell if your dog has a fever and knowing what steps to take you’ll be able to provide them with the best care possible.

How can I tell if my dog’s fever is serious?

If your pup has a fever that is 102.5 F or higher, it’s important to contact your veterinarian for further advice. Your vet may want to run tests and see if there are any underlying medical conditions causing the fever.

In some cases, a high fever can be triggered by an infection or illness such as distemper or parvovirus. It is best to get your pet looked at as soon as possible to start treatment and ensure a speedy recovery.

How to take your dog’s temperature?

• Use a digital thermometer designed specifically for animals: These are available at your local pet store or online.
• Lubricate the tip with petroleum jelly: This will make inserting the thermometer easier and less uncomfortable for your pup.
• Insert the thermometer into your dog’s rectum: Make sure to insert it far enough, but not too far.
• Wait for the reading: Once you have the temperature of your pup, make sure it’s in the normal range (101-102.5 Fahrenheit). Anything above 102.5 F is considered a fever and you should contact your veterinarian right away.

What are the potential complications of a fever in a dog?

After learning how to tell if your dog has a fever, you need to know what the potential complications of a fever in a dog are.

• Dehydration: If your pup is not drinking enough fluids, they can become dehydrated quickly.
• Organ damage: In some cases, a fever for an extended period of time can cause organ damage.
• Sepsis: A fever can also be a sign of sepsis, which requires immediate medical attention.

What should I do if my dog has a fever?

If you believe that your pup may have a fever, it’s important to get medical care right away. Your veterinarian will be able to give you an accurate diagnosis and start a treatment plan if necessary. Make sure that you keep your pup comfortable by providing them with a quiet and cool place to rest.

It’s also important to monitor the situation closely and look out for any changes in their behavior. If your pup does not improve or their fever persists for more than 24 hours, contact your veterinarian for further advice.

Knowing how to tell if your dog has a fever is an essential part of being a responsible pet parent. By understanding the signs and symptoms you can help get your pup the help they need quickly and ensure that they have a speedy recovery.

How to reduce a dog’s fever?

• Give cool baths: A cool bath can help reduce a dog’s fever and make them more comfortable.
• Offer fluids: Make sure your pup gets plenty of water to stay hydrated and keep their energy levels up.
• Adjust the temperature: Keep your pup in a cooler area of the house to help reduce their fever.
• Avoid physical activity: Rest is key when it comes to fever reduction; avoid strenuous activities until the fever has subsided.

By following these tips, you can help reduce your pup’s fever and provide them with the best possible care. It is important to monitor their body temperature closely and contact your veterinarian if the fever does not go down after 24 hours.

How are dog fevers treated?

• Antibiotics: If your pup has a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed.
• Anti-inflammatory medication: To help reduce inflammation and swelling, your vet may prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs.
• Vaccinations: A booster vaccination may be recommended if your pup is not up to date with their shots.
• Diet changes: Your vet may suggest a special diet that is easier to digest and provides more nutrients.

Can a fever in a dog be prevented?

The best way to prevent a fever in your pup is by ensuring they are up-to-date on all vaccinations and by providing them with a healthy diet and plenty of exercise. Regular visits to the vet can also help catch any health issues before they become serious. Additionally, keeping an eye out for any changes in behavior and monitoring body temperature closely can help you spot a fever quickly.

Taking care of your pup’s health is essential, and knowing how to tell if your dog has a fever is an important part of this process. If you suspected that your pup may have a fever, make sure to contact your veterinarian right away for further advice.

Conclusion: how to tell if your dog has a fever?

In conclusion, there are several how to tell if your dog has a fever. If you have any concerns about your dog’s health or believe that it may have a fever, it’s important to go see your vet as soon as possible so they can assist in diagnosing and providing treatment for your beloved companion. By taking proactive steps to ensure that our furry family members are cared for properly, we will hopefully be able to enjoy many more inspiring moments together.

More reading: how to comfort a dog with pancreatitis

FAQS for signs your dog has a fever

Can you tell if a dog has a fever by touch?

Detecting a fever in dogs is no easy feat! Due to their naturally high temperature, it’s almost impossible to tell if your dog is running hot just by touch. Unfortunately, this means that dog fevers are often only discovered once you’re at the veterinarian’s office. So, keep a close eye on your pup and don’t be afraid to schedule a check-up if something seems off.

Will a dog’s fever break on its own?

Sometimes, a dog’s body can battle the infection causing the fever all on their own. But, if the pesky infection is tougher than your pup’s immune system, it may be time to seek the help of a trusted veterinary professional.

Why are my dogs ears hot but no fever?

One tell-tale sign of an ear infection in dogs is a warmer-than-usual ear. If you sense something’s amiss, be sure to give your pup a thorough check-up for other signs of this pesky issue.

How long does it take for a dog’s fever to go down?

Your dog’s fever should subside within the next day or two, but it’s important to keep a close eye on them in case any symptoms persist. Stay vigilant!

How do I know if my dog has a fever without a thermometer?

When your dog isn’t feeling well, you might notice that his ears and paws feel like they’re on fire. One way to check if he has a fever is to use your cheek or the back of your hand to feel for a temperature difference. The good news is that healthy dogs typically have only a slightly higher body temperature than humans.

What is a natural fever reducer for dogs?

Try applying a refreshing cold compress and sponging them with cool water – this can work wonders in reducing their body temperature. Don’t forget to also give them plenty of rest and a well-balanced diet to help manage any other symptoms.

Can I give my dog a bath if he has fever?

Give your dog a refreshing soak in a comfortably cool tub for at least 5 minutes, but no more than 10. This should help to lower their temperature.

Can paracetamol cure dog fever?

While you might be tempted to give your dog paracetamol to bring their fever down, it’s a risky move. In fact, paracetamol can be seriously harmful to your pooch if they ingest it in the wrong dose. So, unless your vet instructs you otherwise, it’s best to steer clear of this medication and opt for safer alternatives instead.

Can you tell if a dog has a fever from their head?

Think you can tell if a pooch is feeling under the weather by checking its nose? Instead, the best way to confirm if your furry friend is running a fever is by taking their temperature.

Does a dog feel warm to touch if they have a fever?

In fact, dogs have a naturally higher body temperature than us humans, so the warmth you’re feeling is just a normal part of being a pup.