Fever in dogs
Key information:
Fever, also known as pyrexia, in dogs is a rise in normal body temperature caused by the body's internal regulatory system (the hypothalamus). This is different from hyperthermia, where body temperature rises because of external factors such as heatstroke or exhaustion, without a change in the body's set point. A dog's normal body temperature ranges between 37.8°C and 39.3°C. A fever above 41°C is considered a medical emergency.
What is fever in dogs
Fever is one of the immune system's main responses for fighting infection in the body, and it isn't always a cause for concern. A vet consultation is recommended for a temperature above 39.5°C that lasts more than 24 hours. Moderate fever between 39.4°C and 40°C calls for more urgent attention. Temperatures above 41°C require immediate medical attention, as they can cause serious organ damage and life-threatening conditions such as disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).
Because fever is an immune response, it arises as a result of another problem in the dog's body. Given the wide range of possible causes, it's hard to judge how serious a fever is until the underlying cause has been identified.
Risk factors
Fever can vary considerably in severity. It's most often caused by infections and inflammation. Mild fevers linked to vaccination, surgery or minor infections often clear up without needing treatment. Fever usually comes on suddenly, but it can also be cyclical and recurring. In most cases it's accompanied by other symptoms, which help narrow down the possible causes.
Possible causes
The main causes of fever usually fall into the following categories:
- Infections: Bacterial, viral or fungal infections
- Inflammatory processes: Autoimmune diseases or other inflammatory conditions
- Vaccinations: Short-lived fever following a vaccine
- Surgery: Temporary fever after an operation
Tests and diagnosis
Fever is easy to identify by measuring the animal's temperature. Once a fever is identified, further diagnostic tests are needed to determine the underlying cause. These tests include:
- Physical examination: Assessing the dog's general condition
- Blood tests: A complete blood count and biochemistry panel
- Urinalysis: Assessing kidney function and detecting infections
- Imaging: X-rays or ultrasound to visualise internal organs
- Specialist tests: Identifying infectious agents such as viruses, fungi or bacteria
Treatment
Treatment for fever is aimed at addressing the underlying cause. With the right treatment, fever usually clears up along with the underlying illness. Because the possible causes vary so widely, treatment can differ significantly.
If you're worried about your dog's health, it's a good idea to contact a vet for further information and advice.
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