My healthy dog has a fever and won't eat. When should I call the vet?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

• Answered By Laura E. McRae

  Veterinary Technician

  A fever can be defined as a higher than normal temperature in a dog. Normal temperature range for a dog is between 100 -102.5 degrees F, so anything above 102.5 can be considered a fever. The only way to get an accurate temperature reading on a dog is to take the temperature with a rectal themometer.
  
  It is imporant to remember that a fever is a symptom of a disease or disorder, rather than the disease itself. Causes of fevers include (but are not limited to) infections, immune-mediated disorders, tumors, metabolic diseases, endocrine diseases, and toxins. Sometimes the cause of a fever will remain unknown.
  
  I recommond monitoring your dog for a day or two to see if the fever resolves or if other symptoms, like lethargy, vomiting, or diarrhea, begin. Make sure your dog has plenty of access to water and is drinking. You can offer ice cubes to encourage liquid intake. Encouage eating by offering warmed canned dog food, dry dog food moistened with warm water, or boiled chicken. Keep your dog quiet and calm. If the fever rises to 104 degrees F or higher, persists past a couple days,or other symptoms start, then you should take your dog to your veterinarian for a clinical exam.

  

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• Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

  Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

  Published on February 20th, 2018

  Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! If you are taking this temperature when he is calm then yes this would classify as a fever. Since he is not eating this is certainly serious and something that warrants an evaluation. There are several reasons for a fever and your veterinarian would be able to point you out in the right direction with further information gathered with more history and physical examination findings. Good luck! All the best to him!

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful