We all know that fever in cats’ ears is generally rare. When a cat’s ears are hot, many cat owners will panic and think that their cats have a cold or illness. In fact, this is not the case. Today, Meow Yaojun I mainly want to talk to you about what I know about cats’ ear fever, so that everyone can have a new understanding of cats~

Many of us pet owners may notice a special detail when petting their cats, which is feeling the cat’s body temperature. Cats are animals that naturally generate heat, most notably in their ears. Depending on the environment and how well it's feeling, your cat's ears may feel hot, red, or dry.

Since the natural body temperature is 4-5 degrees higher than that of humans, hot ears are usually a sign of normal health. The ears will naturally feel warm unless other symptoms, such as vomiting or drowsiness, occur.

Then many friends will ask, is the cat sick if the whole body is hot? In fact, it is not always the case. General examination can find out whether your pet has symptoms such as physical discomfort. If your cat's belly and underarms are overheated, this may be a sign of fever.

Is it normal for cats’ ears to feel warm?

As Miao Yaojun has said before, cats are naturally hot creatures. Many cat owners usually associate an increase in body temperature with disease, while an increase in cat body temperature is relatively normal.

The average temperature for a healthy cat is 38 degrees Celsius, but any temperature above 38 degrees Celsius (up to 39 degrees Celsius) is completely normal for cats. In most environments, your cat's ears will feel warmer than the touch of your hands.

When was the last time you touched a cat’s ears? As the environment changes, human body temperature also fluctuates. Because cats' ears are so thin, they are more susceptible to environmental conditions.

Similar to how a cat’s nose changes from moist to dry under certain circumstances, the same goes for a cat’s ears. Their naturally elevated body temperature needs to drop dramatically before their ears begin to cool.

The only way to know if your cat's ears are warmer than usual is to check them regularly over a 24-hour period. Only then can you detect any abnormal physical changes in your cat.

Is your cat short-haired or long-haired? Cats have limited hair on their ears, making them more susceptible to environmental influences. If your shorthair cat regularly rests in the sun or under a fire (or radiator), it's logical that in most cases your pet's ears will be warmer. ​​​​​​

What are the signs of fever in cats?

A cat’s ears are not a valid measure of a cat’s health. While hot ears can be a sign of a fever, this is usually not the case.

A body temperature of 39°C is considered a standard fever. Similar to the human body, catsThe heat produced by the ears is higher and can fight infection. This is a positive sign.

If your cat has a fever, he will most likely be living in a cooler area of ​​your home. Maintaining a more open posture rather than curling up is an effective way to reduce body heat. Here are some of the signs of hair fever and illness summarized by Miao Yaojun...

If your cat’s ears feel warmer than usual, checking the entire body is the best option. The abdomen and underarms should also be carefully examined; if these areas feel warm like the ears, this is a clearer sign that the cat has a fever.

Is your cat continuing his normal activities or is he not exercising? Since cats are often good at hiding signs of illness, you may want to look for different clues. If they show changes in personality, are unable to participate, refuse to eat and drink, and act lethargic on a daily basis, that is a sign that your pet may be sick. A combination of these symptoms often indicates bacterial and viral infections, with elevated ear temperatures acting as secondary symptoms.

Common ear problems that affect cats’ health

Elevated ear temperatures may be caused by ear infections or skin problems.

Are your cat’s ears hot, itchy, and red? Can you hear sounds in the ears? Are there small black particles in the ears? This could be the result of a skin infection or fleas. When the outer ear becomes infected, a condition called otitis externa may occur. Ear mites can also be a problem, and an allergic reaction from food or infection can cause your cat's ears to heat up.

Some ear problems cannot be seen, especially in older cats with hearing loss. If your cat doesn't respond to commands like it used to, or if it tilts its head in confusion, your cat may not be able to hear you. In this case, the temperature of your cat's ears has nothing to do with what's going on in the ears themselves. One of the main signs of hearing loss is the inability to respond to noticeably loud and alarming sounds.

Accumulation of black particles can also cause ear discomfort, ranging from pain to hearing loss. If a buildup of black particles leads to an infection, your cat's ears may appear warmer than normal due to the presence of fungus.

If not handled properly, a dark discharge with a foul odor may occur. Cats that are unkempt, unruly, or have long ears may fall victim to wax buildup and complications.

Polyps, cysts and tumors

The formation of polyps, cysts, or tumors is somewhat rare but more common in older cats and can cause inflammation of the ear (inner ear) and cause the ear to become warm. As the growth continues to form and expand, your cat's ears may gradually become warm.

Although mites, allergies, and other issues can cause similar problems, if you notice that one ear is much warmer than the other, it may be due to growth. It is important to have your cat's ears checked by a veterinarian. If oneThis is especially true if the ear's high temperature lasts for several days.

Foreign bodies may also be the cause of inflammation and ear temperature. If your cat lives outdoors for long periods of time, the heat may be caused by dust, small rocks, or other debris.

Can stress cause cats to get hot?

In addition to over-grooming, hair pulling, the need for isolation, and gastrointestinal issues, stress can cause an increase in body temperature and increased breathing and exertion.

Your cat may also start scratching more frequently. With the ears as the main target, the fur will slowly fall out and the skin underneath will become irritated.

Not only will this increase ear temperature, it may also lead to infection. If scraping becomes compulsive, blood may be drawn as the open wound becomes visible.

The results are an increase in ear temperature due to pressure, additional temperature due to physical irritation, and subtle infections due to vigorous scratching.

Without other symptoms and behavioral changes (such as constant flapping of the ears), heating the ears alone is inconclusive.

You should also perform an internal examination of your cat's ears. Never try to put objects in your ears or try to remove known debris, but a quick inspection may reveal the problem. If there are any signs of a problem, you should take your cat to the veterinarian for a checkup.