If your cat is sick, you can tell almost immediately by a high body temperature. The first thing veterinarians ask the owners about is, of course, the temperature. This is necessary in order to diagnose as accurately as possible.
There are 2 ways to measure - either with a special pet thermometer, or with an ordinary one that you use to measure your own temperature. In this case, an electronic thermometer will work better than a regular mercury thermometer, because you will know the temperature sooner. To smooth out the discomfort for your pet’s tail, put petroleum jelly or greasy cream on the tip of the thermometer.
Position your pet on your lap, lifting the cat’s tail to gently insert the tip of the thermometer into the cat’s rectal opening (about 4 centimeters). In order not to harm your cat, insert the thermometer slowly, turning the thermometer slightly.
The time to measure temperature with a mercury thermometer is 5 minutes. In contrast, an electronic thermometer will let you know the result by making a sound. The standard temperature of healthy cats can vary from 38.5 to 39 degrees. Body temperature in breeds without fur ranges from 43 to 46 degrees.
After measuring the temperature, the thermometer should be thoroughly washed under water and soap and it doesn’t hurt to wipe with alcohol.