Page 372 - Problem-Based Feline Medicine

PART 7

Sick cat with specific signs

19. The pyrexic cat

Kristy L Dowers and Michael R Lappin

KEY SIGNS

● Temperature > 39.2˚C (102.5˚F).

MECHANISM?
● True fever results from a cascade of events, which starts with activation of leukocytes.
Pyrogenic factors released from the leukocytes increase the thermoregulatory set point in the
hypothalamus.
Signs that may be associated with fever include:
● Elevated body temperature.
● Reluctance to move.
● Anorexia.
● Depression.
● Hyperpnea.
● Muscle or joint stiffness/discomfort.
● Shivering.

WHERE?
● Inflammation anywhere in the body can result in elevation of core body temperature above
39.2˚C (102.5˚F).

WHAT?
● The most common etiology for fever in the cat is percutaneous cellulitis or abscess.
Viral diseases such as FIV, FeLV and FIP are important diseases to consider.

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