What can cause a fever in a dog? - briefly
Fever in dogs can be caused by various factors such as infections (bacterial, viral, or fungal), inflammatory conditions, or even reactions to certain vaccines or medications. Additionally, heatstroke or exposure to high temperatures can also lead to a fever in dogs.
What can cause a fever in a dog? - in detail
Fever in dogs, known as pyrexia, is typically defined by a body temperature above 103°F (39.4°C). While it's not uncommon for dogs to experience mild fevers as part of their immune response to infection, persistent or high fevers warrant prompt veterinary attention. The underlying causes of fever in dogs can be diverse and may include infectious agents, inflammatory conditions, autoimmune disorders, and less commonly, cancerous processes.
Infectious diseases are among the most frequent triggers for fever in dogs. Bacterial infections such as pyometra (infection of the uterus), leptospirosis, and tick-borne illnesses like ehrlichiosis and anaplasmosis can lead to significant fevers. Viral infections including distemper, parvovirus, and influenza are also known to cause fever. Additionally, fungal infections like blastomycosis or histoplasmosis can induce pyrexia in dogs.
Inflammatory conditions such as pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) and immune-mediated diseases like systemic lupus erythematosus or polyarthritis can result in fever. These conditions may cause an overactive immune response, leading to elevated body temperature.
Autoimmune disorders where the dog's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues can also be associated with fever. Examples include immune-mediated hemolytic anemia and immune-mediated thrombocytopenia.
Certain medications or vaccines can cause a temporary rise in body temperature as part of the normal immune response to antigens. However, this type of fever is usually mild and short-lived.
Less commonly, cancerous processes such as lymphoma or other types of neoplasia may lead to fever. In these cases, the cancer cells can release substances that stimulate the immune system, resulting in a febrile response.
It's crucial for dog owners to monitor their pets closely and be aware of any signs of fever, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or increased heart rate. If a dog exhibits these symptoms, prompt veterinary evaluation is essential to determine the underlying cause and initiate appropriate treatment.