When I go to the doctor, they always take my temperature. Why don’t I ever see my cat getting

Good question! And we do have an answer for that.

We simply do not want to ruin our relationship with your cat. Taking a rectal temperature is rather rude and it can ruin their experience within the first few moments. We no longer use ear thermometers since they are inaccurate. Other things we take into consideration is that a stressful car ride and being stressed during an exam can elevate their temperature as well.

Now if your cat does comes in feeling under the weather, you can bet we will be taking his temperature! While some cats do present with fevers, many cats that are sick actually tend to have a LOWER body temperature. Then we are running into trouble and we will perform other diagnostics to find out why your cat has a sub-normal temperature.

Rest assured the AAFP backs up this protocol for taking your cats’ temperature, and if you want your healthy cat’s temperature taken, just ask. We will be more than happy to accommodate your request…at the END of the appointment!