Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Axillary and rectal temperature differences in dogs and cats
By Goic, Joana B et al.·Published in Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·2014·Department of Clinical Studies, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Comparison of rectal and axillary temperatures in dogs and cats.
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
A study involving 94 dogs and 31 cats found that while axillary (armpit) temperatures were somewhat related to rectal temperatures, they shouldn't replace rectal measurements for accurate readings. The average axillary temperature was lower than the rectal temperature in dogs, but not significantly different in cats. Axillary temperatures were good at detecting hypothermia (low body temperature) but not as reliable for hyperthermia (high body temperature). This means if you're worried about your pet's temperature, it's best to stick with rectal measurements for the most accurate results.
People also search for: dog temperature measurement · cat fever symptoms · how to take a dog's temperature · why is my cat cold · dog hypothermia signs
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To compare rectal versus axillary temperatures in dogs and cats. DESIGN: Prospective observational study. ANIMALS: 94 dogs and 31 cats. PROCEDURES: Paired axillary and rectal temperatures were measured in random order with a standardized method. Animal signalment, initial complaint, blood pressure, blood lactate concentration, and variables associated with vascular perfusion and coat were evaluated for associations with axillary and rectal temperatures. RESULTS: Axillary temperature was positively correlated with rectal temperature (ρ = 0.75 in both species). Median axillary temperature (38.4°C [101.1°F] in dogs, and 38.4°C [101.2°F] in cats) was significantly different from median rectal temperature in dogs (38.9°C [102.0°F]) but not in cats (38.6°C [101.5°F]). Median rectal-axillary gradient (difference) was 0.4°C (0.7°F; range, -1.3° to 2.3°C [-2.4° to 4.1°F]) in dogs and 0.17°C (0.3°F; range -1.1° to 1.6°C [-1.9° to 3°F]) in cats. Sensitivity and specificity for detection of hyperthermia with axillary temperature were 57% and 100%, respectively, in dogs and 33% and 100%, respectively, in cats; sensitivity and specificity for detection of hypothermia were 86% and 87%, respectively, in dogs and 80% and 96%, respectively, in cats. Body weight (ρ = 0.514) and body condition score (ρ = 0.431) were correlated with rectal-axillary gradient in cats. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Although axillary and rectal temperatures were correlated in dogs and cats, a large gradient was present between rectal temperature and axillary temperature, suggesting that axillary temperature should not be used as a substitute for rectal temperature.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24786164/