Body temperature below 100.5 degrees,

What to do: - Move the pet to a warm environment.

- Bundle the pet in warm blankets. Blankets may be warmed by putting them in a clothes dryer.

- Put a hot water bottle in the blankets to add heat.

- Immerse the pet in water maintained at 101degrees to 103 degrees.

- Seek veterinary attention.

What NOT to do: - Do not allow the pet to chill if water was used to warm him.

- Do not burn the pet by using blankets, heating pads, water, etc., that are too hot and may damage the skin.

- Do not use excess superficial heat. This may cause superficial blood vessels to dilate, resulting in shock.

If the rectal temperature of a dog or cat is below 100.5 degees, the animal is suffering from hypothermia. The pet is usually lethargic and doesn't have much of an appetite. The cause may be environmental or metabolic. Regardless, it indicates that the pet is in need of veterinary attention.

Hypothermia may be a sign of serious illness (i.e., diabetes, Addison's disease, Cushing's disease, hypothyroidism). Its significance should not be overlooked.

Copyright 1994, by Roger W. Gfeller and Michael W. Thomas. All rights reserved.