Are we getting our cats’ temperatures all wrong?

While the range of healthy feline temperatures considered normal is considered to be between 100.0 and 102.5⁰F, there’s little evidence supporting that range. In a recent study, UF Shelter Medicine Program researchers led by Dr. Julie Levy checked temperatures on 200 healthy adult cats in shelters, homes, and veterinary clinics. They found that the actual normal temperature range for healthy cats is 98.1–102.1°F.

In another study, the same researchers examined the accuracy of non-rectal methods of taking a cat’s temperature. Unfortunately for those hoping for an easier way, they found that the results weren’t consistent. Temperatures tended to be higher in hypothermic cats and lower in cats with fevers or who had normal temperatures when measured rectally.

Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences

As part of both the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences and the Academic Health Center, Veterinary Medicine is dedicated to advancing animal, human and environmental health through teaching, research, extension and patient care.

UF Veterinary Forensic Sciences

The University of Florida's online graduate certificate program in Veterinary Forensic Sciences is provided by the University of Florida, College of Veterinary Medicine in partnership with the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).