How to Take Your Pet's Temperature

Take your pet's temperature when she is healthy so that you'll
recognize when her temperature is above normal in the future.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Rectal Thermometers (for Animals)
• Timers
• Petroleum Jelly
• Petroleum Jelly

Taking the Temperature of a Horse

1. Use a large-animal rectal thermometer.

2. Tie a string to the end of the thermometer.

3. Apply petroleum jelly or a similar lubricant to the tip of the thermometer.

4. Shake the thermometer down.

5. Insert the thermometer three-quarters of the way into the horse's rectum.

6. Attach the free end of the string to the horse's tail using an alligator clip - so you don't lose the thermometer in your horse. Wait 2 to 3 minutes.

7. Take the thermometer out and read it.

Taking the Temperature of a Dog or Cat

8. Use a rectal thermometer specific to your animal's size. These are available at many pet stores.

9. Sterilize the thermometer by dipping it in rubbing alcohol.

10. Allow it to dry, then apply petroleum jelly or a similar lubricant to the tip.

11. Allow your pet to stand, or lay her on her side, and gently hold her down.

12. Shake the thermometer until it reads below 100 degrees F.

13. Insert the thermometer one inch for a cat or small dog and up to three-quarters of the way for a giant breed and wait 1 to 3 minutes. Your pet may respond to this uncomfortable procedure by scratching or snapping. As you proceed, gently stroke her and talk in a gentle, soothing tone. If this doesn't work, try again later ' most pets eventually allow their temperature to be taken.

14. Take the thermometer out and read it.

15. Wipe or rinse the thermometer after use, and then sterilize it by dipping it in rubbing alcohol.

16. Reward your pet with a treat.

Tips & Warnings

• The average temperature for a dog or cat is 100.5 to 102.5 degrees F.
• Digital thermometers designed for humans work well on pets. They can be used orally or anally and deliver a reading in a matter of seconds.
• Do not try to take a bird's temperature.

[starsaver]

on 2/21/2009 What is the easiest way to take a pet raccons Temp? My friend has two of them and is convinced that they will eat your face if you use a rectal thermometer! I just figured if they were mine since they were babies then my rapport with them would be enough to win their trust. Someone mentioned a digital thermometer under the arm pit. Maybe that would be easier? Anyone have experience with raccoons? I have alot with Dogs and Cats!

[jojo01]

on 6/15/2007 I have a 3 year old chow/min and he usually goes right outside to go the bathroom. Lately he has been eating the grass and urinating in the house. He does not have any of the symptoms listed for urine tract infection. Why else would he be eating grass and urinating in the house?

on 1/9/2008 I purchased a Baby's Rectal Thermometer (made by Vick's) at Walgreen's and it is a safe and easy way to take a rectal temp on your pet. It has a short probe which helps guard against over insertion. I would highly recommend one to those who may be nervous about taking their pet's rectal temperature.

on 7/29/2006 Instead of rectal insertion, use a digital thermometer under the dogs arm (same as with the kitty tip on this site). They're cleaner and less invasive. Using one that beeps when it is done is best. I sit with my 20 pound dog on my lap or next to me while doing this procedure. If you don't have a thermometer and suspect a dog may have a fever, feel the ears to see if they feel hot.

on 6/30/2006 Take it from me, a veterinarian from New Hampshire, taking a rectal test is not easy. Your pet will squirm. And worst of all, if the liquid leaks, it can give your pet a rash on its genitals. So to prevent this from happening, gently squeeze the anus. Your pet will relax. Then use jell packs to squeeze into the rectum. I recommend you do this quickly.