Low Body Temperature In Cats: What You Need To Do

Understanding Low Body Temperature in Cats: Signs, Causes, and What to Do

Low body temperature, or hypothermia, in cats can be a serious health issue that requires immediate attention. Cats typically have a body temperature ranging from 101° F to 102.5°F. When their temperature drops below this range, it can be a sign of underlying problems, such as exposure to cold, illness, or shock. Keep reading to understand the causes, symptoms, and treatments of low body temperature in cats to ensure their well-being and prevent complications.

Signs of Low Body Temperature in Cats

• Hypothermia in cats can manifest with a range of symptoms, from mild to severe, depending on how long their body temperature has been below normal and the underlying cause. Cat owners can recognize low body temperature through several telltale signs. Mild hypothermia can cause lethargy, lack of energy or alertness, cold skin to the touch, and shivering. 

Moderate hypothermia can lead to pale or bluish gums, slowed heartbeat, slow breathing, and drowsiness. Severe hypothermia results in collapse and coma and becomes potentially fatal if left untreated. Recognizing these symptoms early is essential to getting your cat the immediate medical attention it needs to prevent further complications.

Causes of Low Body Temperature in Cats

Common causes of hypothermia in cats include:

Environmental Factors

• Low body temperature in cats often results from exposure to cold, wet environments, much like in humans. If a cat gets soaked and is exposed to cold weather without shelter, its body temperature can drop significantly. Cats with shorter or no fur, as well as very young or older cats, are particularly vulnerable to this type of hypothermia.

Anesthesia

• Cats undergoing long surgeries under anesthesia are prone to hypothermia due to the effects of sedation. Anesthesia reduces heart rate, breathing, and nerve response, causing a decline in the body’s core temperature. If the cat isn’t carefully monitored, it can develop anesthesia-related hypothermia.

Toxicity

• Ingesting toxic substances, such as ivermectin (used for parasites), acetaminophen, or rat poison, can lead to hypothermia. These toxins can cause blood loss or reduce the heart rate, which lowers the cat’s body temperature.

Shock

• Severe conditions like septic shock, often due to blood infections or intestinal leakage, can cause the cat’s body temperature to plummet as the body goes into shock.

Identifying the cause early is key to preventing serious complications and ensuring that your cat remains safe and warm.

Treatment of Low Body Temperature in Cats

• The primary goal when treating a cat with low body temperature (hypothermia) is to restore the cat’s core body heat safely and effectively. Two main methods are passive external warming and active internal warming.

Passive External Warming

• This method is typically used for cats with mild to moderate hypothermia. It involves gradually warming the cat externally using blankets, heating pads, and warm water bottles. 

Covering any heating devices with blankets or towels is essential to protect the cat’s skin from burns. However, hair dryers should never be used for this purpose, as they can cause burns and stress to the cat.

Active Internal Warming

• In more severe cases of hypothermia, where the cat’s temperature is dangerously low, veterinarians use active internal warming methods. This might involve administering intravenous (IV) fluids warmed to body temperature or using heat ventilation techniques. These approaches warm the cat from the inside, helping to stabilize the internal organs and restore normal body functions.

Working with a veterinarian in Charlottesville is essential for ensuring the proper treatment method is applied based on the severity of the hypothermia. Early intervention is critical to prevent complications and help the cat recover safely.

At Autumn Trails and Veterinary Center, we provide the best urgent care services to keep your pets healthy and happy, especially in emergencies. We offer our veterinary services in Charlottesville, VA. To book an appointment, contact us at 434-971-9800.