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Fever is also known as pyrexia, and it can have a huge range of different causes. Though often associated with an infection, dogs also develop fevers if stressed, in pain, or if externally over-heated.
A fever is a warning flag that something is not right with your dog. This article explores how you can identify a high body temperature, what it can mean and the next steps you should take. Let’s dive in!
Typically, your dog is going to have a rectal temperature of about 38 to 39.1 degrees celsius. This is a little hotter than a human and this explains why your furry friend makes such a good hot water bottle on cold night (and why mosquitoes often prefer to bite them over us!).
A temperature over 39.3 degrees celsius is generally accepted to be a true fever. A temperature over 40 degrees celsius is unusual and can be dangerous, especially if elevated for a prolonged period.
To check your dog’s temperature, use a rectal thermometer. Other thermometer types (such as those that touch the forehead or go in the mouth) are not going to give accurate measurements.
This article provides an easy to read step-by-step guide - How to Take a Dog's Temperature?
You may be wondering how to tell if a dog has a fever. If your pooch does have a high temperature, there are a number of symptoms you may notice. These can include:
Lethargy or weakness. Your dog may sleep a lot more and have little energy for games or walks.
Loss of appetite. You’ll find they have no interest in their meals and they may even refuse treats.
Shivering or tremors. Their body may shake or shiver, and this is a sign that tends to come and go.
Warm ears, nose, or skin. If you feel them, you’ll find they are much warmer than usual.
Panting or rapid breathing.Panting is the way in which a dog dissipates their heat. So, it stands to reason that they are going to pant much more if they feel hot.
Glazed or glassy eyes. As the blood vessels in the eyes dilate, you may notice they appear to be glazed over.
Red gums. Vasodilation (expansion of the blood vessels) is one way the body tries to cool down, and this leads to the gums and other mucous membranes becoming more red.
So, what is the cause of fever in our canine companions? Frustratingly, there are a huge range of possible triggers, meaning it can sometimes be tricky to identify the issue.
If your dog has a fever, it could be due to:
Infections (bacterial, viral, fungal)
From kennel cough to tick borne infections, nasal aspergillosis to a tooth root abscess, if there are microbes invading your dog’s body, they are likely to rapidly mount an immune response– and a high body temperature is one part of this.
Vaccination reactions
As the body detects a virus or bacteria contained in a vaccine, it starts to develop antibodies and the immune system believes that there is a need to increase the body temperature and kill off any ‘intruders’.
Inflammatory conditions
Many inflammatory conditions are going to raise the normal temperature, including pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) or hepatitis (inflammation of the liver). Dogs may experience additional signs, such as abdominal pain and vomiting.
Ingestion of toxic substances
Some toxins elevate the body temperature, including stimulant drugs, poisonous mushrooms and blue green algae. Other common signs of toxicity include shaking, vomiting, and lethargy.
Immune-mediated diseases
Conditions like polyarthritis and IMHA (immune-mediated hemolytic anemia) are also going to cause fevers, which can come and go.
If your dog has a fever, try not to panic. It is a common symptom and, for most, resolves quickly and with no lasting effects.
Ensure their environment is not too warm. If it has been hot outside, provide active cooling by dampening the fur and putting your dog beside a fan. Offer a cool drink too.
Monitor for any other symptoms; such as inflamed skin or a limp. Try to encourage rest by providing a cool and cosy resting spot in a quiet location.
Do not be tempted to give any human medicine. Indeed, some are highly toxic and do far more harm than good.
If your dog has a temperature of over 39.4 degrees celsius and there is not an obvious explanation (like a vaccination earlier in the day), monitor them very closely.
They should see their vet if the fever persists for more than a day, or if they have additional symptoms such as vomiting, food refusal, lethargy, wobbliness or seizures.
If you are concerned they are experiencing heat stroke, this is a true emergency and they need to see a vet right away.
Keep in mind that young puppies, seniors, or those with underlying medical issues are less able to cope with a fever. These dogs should be seen by a vet promptly.
Can dogs recover from fevers on their own?
Yes, most of the time, a dog is going to recover from a fever shortly and with little to no intervention. This is the case, for example, if the fever is caused by mild over-heating, a viral infection or an episode of pain.
Are fevers in dogs contagious?
Some infectious diseases that cause fevers can be infectious, yes. Examples of this include Parvovirus and Kennel Cough.
Can puppies get fever after vaccination?
Absolutely, a fever is a known and frequently seen side effect. It tends to be mild and is usually gone within one day.
If your dog has a temperature, keep a close eye on how they are acting and on any other symptoms developing. Trust your instincts and do not hesitate to seek vet advice if concerned for your fur baby.
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