How to Measure Your Pet’s Temperature & Prevent Parasites

How to Measure Your Pet’s Temperature & Prevent Parasites

How to Measure Your Pet’s Temperature?

Monitoring your pet's body temperature is a crucial way to assess their health.

Dog’s Normal Temperature (Rectal Measurement)

  • Small Dogs: Puppies 38.5-39°C, Adults 38-39°C
  • Medium Dogs: Puppies 38.5-39°C, Adults 38-38.5°C
  • Large Dogs: Puppies 38.2-39°C, Adults 37.5-39°C

Cat’s Normal Temperature (Rectal Measurement)

  • Normal range: 37.8-39.2°C

Most cats resist rectal temperature measurement, so an ear thermometer can be used as an alternative. However, ear temperatures tend to be slightly lower than rectal readings. Always use a pet-specific ear thermometer since a human ear thermometer is not designed for a cat’s curved ear canal.

How to Measure a Cat’s Rectal Temperature?

  1. Apply lubricant to the tip of the thermometer to ensure comfort.
  2. One person should hold and comfort the cat while another takes the temperature.
  3. Insert the thermometer’s mercury tip about 2 cm into the rectum.
  4. Wait 20-30 seconds for an accurate reading.

How to Measure a Cat’s Ear Temperature?

  1. Hold the cat’s ear gently and place the ear thermometer into the ear canal.
  2. Press the measurement button and wait for the temperature reading.

Why Is Parasite Prevention Important?

Common Internal Parasites in Pets

Pets are prone to internal parasites like:

  • Coccidia, Hookworms, Tapeworms, Roundworms, and Heartworms

Most parasites have a growth cycle of less than a month, with some as short as 14 days. To ensure effective prevention and treatment, it’s recommended to deworm your pet once a month.

Common External Parasites in Pets

External parasites include:

  • Mites (Scabies & Demodex), Fleas, Lice, and Ticks

Even if no parasites are visible on your pet’s body, they may still be present. Dogs require monthly external parasite prevention, especially because they spend more time outdoors. Cats, on the other hand, have lower exposure risks and should have external parasite treatment every three months.

Why a Post-Holiday Health Checkup Is Essential?

Holidays can disrupt a pet’s routine with:
Irregular eating habits
Changes in environment
Disturbed sleep schedules

These factors can impact their health. A comprehensive checkup helps detect potential health issues early before symptoms become apparent.

What a Pet Checkup Covers:

  • Weight, heart rate, and respiratory health
  • Liver and kidney function, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels
  • Personalized veterinary care plan based on test results

Since veterinary clinics can be busy, it’s best to schedule an appointment in advance. If your pet has a medical history, bring previous health records for a more accurate assessment.

Related to the article

Senior Pet Arthritis: Prevention & Care Guide

Essential Prevention Tips Every Cat Owner Must Know!

Why Should Cats Get a BNP Test Before Spaying or Neutering?

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