Fever in dogs can be a worrying sign for any pet owner. Just like humans, dogs can develop fevers when their body is fighting off infections or illnesses. A normal dog’s temperature ranges between 101°F and 102.5°F, and when it goes higher, it could mean something is wrong. Recognizing the signs of a fever, such as warm ears, tiredness, or loss of appetite, can help you act quickly to care for your dog. Knowing how to check their temperature and understanding what might be causing the fever can make a big difference in getting them the right help.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about fever in dogs. From learning how to spot the symptoms to understanding the possible causes like infections or heatstroke, we’ll guide you through the steps to take when your dog isn’t feeling well. We’ll also discuss how to treat a fever at home, when it’s time to see the vet, and how to prevent fevers in the future. By the end, you’ll feel more prepared to handle this common health issue and ensure your dog stays healthy and happy.
What is a Fever in Dogs?
A fever in dogs is when their body temperature rises higher than normal. The normal body temperature for a healthy dog is between 101°F and 102.5°F (38.3°C to 39.2°C). If your dog’s temperature goes above 103°F (39.4°C), they are considered to have a fever. Anything higher than 106°F (41.1°C) is dangerous and requires immediate medical attention.
Just like with humans, a fever in dogs is a sign that something might be wrong. The body is working hard to fight off an infection, virus, or illness. It’s important to know what to look for so you can help your dog feel better quickly.
Also Read:calculate dog age
Signs of Fever in Dogs
Since dogs can’t tell us when they feel sick, it’s up to us to watch for signs of a fever. Here are some common symptoms to look for:
- Warm ears and nose: If your dog’s ears or nose feel warmer than usual, this could be a sign of a fever.
- Lack of energy: Dogs with a fever often seem tired and might not want to play or move around much.
- Shivering: Just like humans, dogs can shiver when they have a fever.
- Loss of appetite: If your dog suddenly stops eating or shows little interest in food, they might have a fever.
- Coughing or sneezing: These could be signs of a fever, especially if your dog also has other symptoms.
- Red or glassy eyes: Fever can cause your dog’s eyes to look red or glossy.
- Vomiting: Some dogs may vomit when they have a fever.
- Dehydration: Dogs with a fever may drink less water, leading to dehydration.
If you notice these symptoms, it’s a good idea to check your dog’s temperature to see if they have a fever.
How to Check Your Dog’s Temperature
The only way to know for sure if your dog has a fever is to take their temperature. You’ll need a thermometer, and it’s best to use a digital one made for pets or babies. Here’s how to check your dog’s temperature safely:
- Get your supplies: You’ll need a digital thermometer, some petroleum jelly, and your dog.
- Calm your dog: Gently talk to your dog and help them feel relaxed.
- Lubricate the thermometer: Apply a small amount of petroleum jelly to the end of the thermometer to make it more comfortable for your dog.
- Take the temperature: Carefully insert the thermometer into your dog’s rectum about 1 inch. Hold it in place for a few seconds until you get a reading.
- Check the reading: If your dog’s temperature is above 103°F (39.4°C), they have a fever.
If you’re uncomfortable taking your dog’s temperature, ask your vet for help. They can show you how to do it properly.
Causes of Fever in Dogs
There are many reasons why a dog might have a fever. It’s important to know what could be causing the fever so you can treat it. Here are some common causes:
1. Infections
Infections are one of the most common causes of fever in dogs. These can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Infections can happen anywhere in the body, including the skin, lungs, and kidneys. For example, a dog with a skin infection may develop a fever as the body tries to fight the bacteria.
2. Vaccinations
Sometimes, dogs may get a mild fever after getting vaccinated. This is normal and usually goes away on its own within a day or two.
3. Ingesting something toxic
If your dog eats something they shouldn’t, like toxic plants, spoiled food, or chemicals, their body might respond with a fever. This is the body’s way of trying to get rid of harmful substances.
4. Autoimmune diseases
Some dogs have autoimmune diseases where their immune system mistakenly attacks their own body. This can lead to inflammation and fever.
5. Heatstroke
Heatstroke can cause your dog’s body temperature to rise dangerously high. This happens when a dog is exposed to extreme heat or over-exercises on a hot day. Heatstroke is very serious and requires immediate care.
6. Cancer
In some cases, cancer can cause fever in dogs. It’s important to keep an eye on your dog’s health and report any sudden or unusual symptoms to your vet.
What to Do When Your Dog Has a Fever
If your dog has a fever, there are steps you can take to help them feel better. However, it’s important to know when to treat a fever at home and when to see a vet. Here’s what you can do:
1. Keep your dog hydrated
Fever can cause dehydration, so make sure your dog has access to fresh water at all times. Encourage them to drink, even if they don’t seem interested. You can also offer ice cubes for them to lick.
2. Cool them down
If your dog’s temperature is high but not dangerously so, you can try to cool them down. Use a damp cloth to gently wipe their paws, ears, and belly. You can also place a fan nearby to help circulate cool air.
3. Monitor their temperature
Check your dog’s temperature regularly to see if it’s improving. If their fever reaches 106°F (41.1°C) or higher, take them to the vet immediately.
4. Rest
Make sure your dog has a quiet, comfortable place to rest. Avoid any activities that might stress them out or cause them to overheat.
5. Avoid human medications
Never give your dog human fever-reducing medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. These can be toxic to dogs and cause serious harm.
When to See the Vet
While mild fevers can sometimes be managed at home, there are times when you need to take your dog to the vet. You should see the vet if:
- Your dog’s fever is above 103°F (39.4°C) and lasts more than 24 hours.
- The fever reaches 106°F (41.1°C) or higher.
- Your dog shows signs of severe illness, such as trouble breathing, vomiting, or extreme lethargy.
- Your dog is not drinking water or is becoming dehydrated.
Your vet can perform tests to find out what’s causing the fever and recommend the right treatment.
Diagnosing the Cause of Fever in Dogs
When you take your dog to the vet for a fever, the vet will likely run a few tests to find out what’s causing it. This may include:
- Physical exam: The vet will check your dog’s body for signs of infection or injury.
- Blood tests: These tests can help the vet see if your dog has an infection, inflammation, or other health issues.
- Urine tests: A urine test can show if your dog has a urinary tract infection or other problems.
- X-rays or ultrasounds: If the vet suspects an internal issue, they may take images of your dog’s body to get a better look.
Once the vet finds the cause of the fever, they can recommend the best treatment for your dog.
Treating Fever in Dogs
The treatment for a fever depends on what’s causing it. Here are some common treatments your vet might recommend:
- Antibiotics: If your dog has a bacterial infection, the vet will likely prescribe antibiotics to help fight the infection and lower the fever.
- Fluids: If your dog is dehydrated, the vet may give them fluids through an IV to help rehydrate them and bring their temperature down.
- Medications: In some cases, the vet may prescribe medications to reduce inflammation or treat an underlying condition causing the fever.
- Rest and monitoring: Sometimes, rest and careful monitoring are all your dog needs to recover from a mild fever.
How to Prevent Fever in Dogs
While it’s not always possible to prevent a fever, there are steps you can take to reduce the chances of your dog getting one:
- Keep up with vaccinations: Make sure your dog is up to date on all their vaccinations to prevent infections.
- Feed them a healthy diet: A strong immune system can help prevent illness. Feed your dog high-quality food and provide plenty of fresh water.
- Regular vet checkups: Take your dog to the vet for regular checkups to catch any potential health issues early.
- Watch what they eat: Keep harmful foods and chemicals out of reach to prevent accidental poisoning.
- Avoid extreme temperatures: Never leave your dog in a hot car or outside in extreme heat, as this can lead to heatstroke.
Conclusion
Fever in dogs is a sign that something is going on inside their body. While it can be scary to see your dog feeling sick, knowing the signs of a fever, how to check their temperature, and when to see the vet can help you manage the situation calmly. If you keep an eye on your dog’s health and take action when needed, they can recover quickly and get back to their happy, healthy self.
FAQs
- How can I tell if my dog has a fever without a thermometer? While a thermometer is the best way to check, warm ears and nose, along with tiredness and loss of appetite, can be signs of a fever.
- Can I give my dog Tylenol for a fever? No, never give your dog Tylenol or any human medicine without talking to your vet. These can be toxic to dogs.
- What is a dangerous fever for a dog? A fever over 106°F (41.1°C) is dangerous and requires immediate vet care.
- How do I bring down my dog’s fever at home? Keep your dog hydrated, rest them, and use a cool cloth on their ears and paws. If their temperature is very high, see a vet.
- Can a dog’s fever go away on its own? Sometimes mild fevers can go away on their own, but if the fever lasts more than 24 hours or is very high, take your dog to the vet.
- Is it normal for a dog to have a fever after vaccination? Yes, it’s normal for dogs to have a mild fever after a vaccine, but it should go away in a day or two.
- Can dogs get fevers from stress? Yes, stress can sometimes cause a slight fever in dogs, but it usually goes away once they calm down.
- How often should I check my dog’s temperature if they have a fever? You should check their temperature every few hours to see if it’s getting better or worse.
- Why does my dog feel hot but doesn’t have a fever? Dogs can feel warm due to their normal body temperature, especially after exercise or being outside in the heat.
- When should I take my dog to the vet for a fever? If your dog’s fever lasts more than 24 hours, is over 103°F (39.4°C), or they show signs of serious illness, see a vet right away.
