Hello y'all! I was wondering if you should use a rectal thermometer when taking a cat's temp or if a regular oral thermometer would be sufficient?

My beautiful girl Birdie is ready to have her little babes any day now. She has had a mucousy discharge for two days now but, is not showing any other symptoms.

In fact, she is very playful and has been eating all day long! I have checked every website, forum posting, etc. for information and there is not one bit of info about a discharge. So, I am little on edge... waiting... waiting.

I thought that possibly taking her temp would relax me a bit?


Thank you very much for any advice.

If you are considering using a glass thermometer, I would not use an oral as the tip is generally longer and more slender, thus more easily prone to breakage. Though given that the cat may not necessarily take too kindly to this procedure, if there is no one to help you hold the cat still, you might want to try one of the digital plastic models that are designed for either use. Good luck.

Thanks Thomas!

Birdie believes that she is quite far above me on the social status scale therefore, I am fairly certain that she would NOT "take too kindly" to my taking her temp! Ha-ha

Anyhoo, I certainly do appreciate your advice. I never would've thought of using a digital thermometer but, that is a brilliant idea!

Hi Birdiesmom,
You're very welcome. I have two cats myself, so I do understand. :)