How to know if your cat is ill

While surfing the net yesterday trying to learn more about themometers and reading a cat's temperature, I found that a better, more accurate thermometer is a pet rectal thermometer. A human thermometer may be used for the same purpose, but may not be as accurate as the rectal thermometer.

A cat's normal body temperature is between 38 and 39 degrees Celcius (according to the vet) and a higher temperature necessitates a visit to the veterinarian. Here's how to take your cat's temperature reading in a safe way.

1) Hold your cat firmly (I held Blackie in a sitting down on all fours position) facing outward and lift its tail to expose the rectum. If using a mercury thermometer, remember to give it a quick shake with a flick of the wrist to "reset" the thermometer. 

2) Insert the thermometer slowly and carefully into the rectum. Wait for 2 minutes if you are using a mercury thermometer (no wonder it didn't work initially as I only waited 30 seconds).

3) Remove the thermometer and read the temperature.