Why Are My Cats Ears Hot? Shocking Reasons Every Cat Owner Should Know!

🐾 Why Are My Cats Ears Hot? Understanding Causes, Concerns, and Solutions

Cats’ ears are fascinating and multifunctional, helping them detect sounds, regulate body temperature, and express emotions. However, you might occasionally notice that your cat’s ears feel hotter than usual. Is this normal, or should you be concerned? While warm ears can be harmless, they may also signal underlying health issues or environmental changes. Understanding why your cat’s ears feel hot is crucial to determining whether to act or let your feline friend be.

This guide will help you explore the common reasons for warm ears, potential concerns, and actionable solutions to keep your cat healthy and comfortable.

🔍 Why Cat Ear Temperature Matters

A cat’s ears are more than just adorable features—they serve critical physiological functions. Their thin, vascular structure allows for effective heat exchange, making them sensitive to changes in body temperature and the environment. Monitoring your cat’s ear temperature can offer valuable insights into their overall health.

While slightly warm ears are normal and may reflect recent activity or environmental heat, persistently hot ears could indicate fever, infection, or irritation. Recognizing the difference between normal warmth and a potential issue is key to addressing your cat’s needs promptly.

🐾 Understanding Cat Ear Temperature: What Every Cat Owner Should Know

A cat’s ears are more than just adorable—they’re a vital part of their anatomy, providing insights into their health and well-being. One question many cat owners have is, “How warm are my cat’s ears supposed to be?” Cat ear temperature can vary depending on environmental factors, activity, and health conditions. Learning to differentiate between normal and abnormal warmth in your cat’s ears can help you monitor their overall health more effectively.

🔥 How Warm Are Cat Ears Supposed to Be?

A cat’s ears naturally feel warm because they are thin and have a rich blood supply. On average, a cat’s body temperature ranges between 100.5°F and 102.5°F (38.1°C to 39.2°C), and their ears often reflect this internal warmth. Factors like resting in a sunny spot, playing, or snuggling can cause a temporary increase in ear warmth, which is usually no cause for concern. However, when the warmth persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it’s time to investigate further.

💡 Quick Tips for Checking Ear Temperature:

Use Your Hands: Gently feel the ears to determine if they’re unusually hot compared to the rest of their body.
Consider the Context: If your cat has been active or exposed to a heat source, the warmth is likely normal.
Look for Other Symptoms: Lethargy, reduced appetite, or redness in the ears could indicate a problem.

🩺 Normal vs. Abnormal Warmth in Cat Ears

Normal Warmth: Slightly warm ears are typical and can occur due to external heat, physical activity, or snuggling. Cats also use their ears to regulate body temperature, which may cause periodic warmth.

Abnormal Warmth: Persistently hot ears could signal health issues such as fever, infections, or inflammation. If you notice additional symptoms like head shaking, excessive scratching, redness, or discharge, it’s important to consult a veterinarian promptly.

💡 Signs to Watch For:

Redness or Swelling: Could indicate irritation or an infection.
Frequent Scratching: Might be due to allergies, mites, or other issues.
Hot with Lethargy: Persistent ear warmth paired with unusual behavior can signal illness.

🩸 The Role of Circulation in Ear Temperature

Cats’ ears play a significant role in thermoregulation. The blood vessels in their ears help release heat, making them a key area for temperature adjustment. During warm weather, their ears might feel hotter as blood flows to the surface to cool down. Conversely, in colder conditions, their ears may feel cooler as the blood flow is redirected to retain warmth. This natural process explains why ear temperature can fluctuate and why it’s an important indicator of overall health.

💡 Tips for Maintaining Healthy Circulation:

Provide a Comfortable Environment: Keep your home at a consistent, moderate temperature to avoid extreme fluctuations.
Monitor for Signs of Poor Circulation: Pale, cold ears may indicate circulatory issues or shock.
Regular Checkups: Schedule routine vet visits to ensure your cat’s circulatory system is functioning properly.

🐾 Common Causes of Warm Cat Ears: What Every Cat Owner Should Know

Cats’ ears can feel warm for many reasons, and understanding these causes can help you determine whether it’s a normal occurrence or a potential concern. From environmental influences to natural biological processes, several factors can affect the temperature of your cat’s ears. Knowing these causes allows you to ensure your feline friend’s health and comfort while preventing unnecessary worry.

☀️ Environmental Factors: Sunlight, Warm Rooms, and Seasons

Environmental conditions play a significant role in the warmth of your cat’s ears. Cats love basking in sunny spots or curling up near heaters during colder months, which can naturally make their ears feel warm. Similarly, the seasonal weather can affect their overall body temperature, with their ears acting as a reflection of these changes. However, prolonged exposure to intense heat could lead to discomfort or overheating, so it’s important to monitor their environment.

💡 Tips for Managing Environmental Factors:

Provide Cool Spots: Ensure your cat has access to shaded, cool areas during hot weather.
Monitor Sunbathing: Limit their time in direct sunlight to avoid overheating.
Adjust Indoor Temperatures: Maintain a moderate and comfortable room temperature year-round.

🐾 Activity Levels: Exercise and Playtime

Physical activity is another common reason why your cat’s ears may feel warm. During exercise or play, their body generates heat, which increases blood flow to various parts of their body, including their ears. This temporary warmth is a natural result of your cat’s excitement and energy expenditure. After a restful period, their ear temperature should return to normal.

💡 Tips for Post-Activity Cooldown:

Offer Water: Keep fresh water available to help regulate your cat’s body temperature.
Provide Rest Areas: Encourage your cat to relax after vigorous play to allow their body to cool down.
Avoid Overexertion: Especially in hot weather, monitor their activity to prevent overheating.

🌡️ Natural Regulation: Cats’ Unique Thermoregulation Process

Cats have a fascinating ability to regulate their body temperature, and their ears play a crucial role in this process. Their ears are thin and vascular, which helps dissipate heat during warm weather. Conversely, in colder conditions, blood flow to the ears is reduced to conserve warmth. This thermoregulation process is a normal and healthy function that explains why your cat’s ears might feel warmer or cooler at different times.

💡 Tips for Supporting Thermoregulation:

Seasonal Adjustments: Provide extra warmth during winter and cool areas during summer.
Observe Temperature Fluctuations: Notice if their ear warmth aligns with the environment or activity level.
Recognize Signs of Distress: Persistent or extreme ear temperature changes could indicate underlying health concerns.

🐾 Health Concerns Related to Hot Cat Ears

While warm cat ears are often harmless, they can sometimes indicate underlying health concerns. From fever and illness to stress or allergic reactions, understanding potential causes is essential for keeping your feline companion healthy. Monitoring additional symptoms and seeking veterinary advice when necessary ensures timely care for your cat.

🌡️ Fever and Illness

A fever is one of the most common reasons for persistently hot ears in cats. Fevers occur when the body raises its temperature to fight infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens. In such cases, hot ears are often accompanied by other symptoms that signal your cat isn’t feeling well.

🩺 How to Identify a Fever in Cats

Cats with a fever may exhibit lethargy, reduced appetite, and dehydration. Their body temperature may rise above the normal range of 100.5°F to 102.5°F (38.1°C to 39.2°C). While hot ears alone aren’t a definitive sign of fever, they can be a useful indicator when paired with these symptoms.

💡 Tips for Detecting Fevers in Cats:

Use a Digital Thermometer: The most reliable way to measure your cat’s temperature is rectally with a pet-safe thermometer.
Monitor Behavior: Look for changes in eating, drinking, and energy levels.
Seek Veterinary Care: If you suspect a fever, consult a vet promptly.

🩹 Common Illnesses Associated with Hot Ears

Several illnesses can cause elevated ear temperatures, including:

Upper Respiratory Infections: Common in cats, these can cause fever, sneezing, and nasal discharge.
Skin Infections or Irritations: Localized issues near the ears can lead to heat and redness.
Ear Infections: Bacterial or fungal infections can make the ears feel warmer than usual.

😿 Stress and Anxiety

Stress is another factor that can temporarily elevate your cat’s ear temperature. When a cat is anxious, their body releases stress hormones that can increase blood flow and body temperature, making their ears feel warmer.

🐾 Signs of Stress in Cats

Cats express stress in subtle ways, such as:

Hiding or withdrawing from social interaction.
Excessive grooming or scratching.
Increased vocalization or restlessness.

💡 Tips for Identifying Stress:

Watch for Behavioral Changes: Sudden shifts in routine or demeanor can signal anxiety.
Create a Safe Environment: Provide hiding spots and maintain a consistent routine to reduce stress.
Consult a Vet: For persistent stress, a vet can suggest behavior modifications or calming aids.

🔥 How Stress Affects Ear Temperature

Stress increases blood circulation, particularly to extremities like the ears. This temporary rise in temperature often subsides as your cat relaxes. However, chronic stress can impact overall health, so addressing the root cause is crucial.

🌸 Allergic Reactions

Allergies in cats can also lead to hot ears, often accompanied by redness, itching, or swelling. Allergic reactions occur when your cat’s immune system overreacts to harmless substances like food, pollen, or household products.

🤧 Symptoms of Allergies in Cats

Persistent scratching, particularly around the ears and face.
Red, inflamed skin or ear discharge.
Sneezing or watery eyes.

💡 Tips for Allergy Management:

Identify the Allergen: Work with your vet to determine the trigger.
Use Hypoallergenic Products: Opt for cat-safe, fragrance-free products in your home.
Try a Limited-Ingredient Diet: If food is the culprit, your vet may recommend a special diet.

🐾 Common Allergens to Watch For

Food Allergies: Ingredients like chicken, beef, or grains can trigger reactions.
Environmental Allergens: Dust mites, pollen, or mold are common irritants.
Flea Saliva: Even one flea bite can cause an allergic reaction in sensitive cats.

🐾 Related Symptoms and Their Significance

Hot ears in cats are often accompanied by other symptoms that provide valuable clues about their health. Observing additional signs such as a dry nose, redness, or sneezing can help you determine whether the issue is minor or requires veterinary attention. This guide explores the significance of these related symptoms and offers practical advice for cat owners.

🌡️ Hot Ears and Dry Nose

A cat’s nose is often used as an indicator of their overall health. While a warm, dry nose isn’t always a cause for concern, it can signal dehydration, illness, or other underlying conditions when combined with hot ears.

❄️ What a Dry Nose Indicates

A dry nose can result from environmental factors like low humidity or recent grooming. However, if it persists or is paired with lethargy, appetite loss, or fever, it may indicate dehydration or an illness requiring attention.

💡 Tips for Addressing a Dry Nose:

Hydration Check: Ensure your cat has access to fresh water at all times.
Observe Behavior: Monitor for other signs of illness like lethargy or reduced appetite.
Maintain Humidity: Use a humidifier to prevent dryness during colder months.

🚨 When to Consult a Veterinarian

Consult a vet if your cat’s dry nose is accompanied by:

Persistent hot ears.
Signs of dehydration (e.g., sunken eyes or reduced skin elasticity).
Behavioral changes or visible discomfort.

🔴 Hot Ears and Redness

Hot ears combined with redness can indicate localized irritation or inflammation. This could stem from an allergic reaction, ear infection, or even insect bites.

🩹 Potential Skin Irritations or Infections

Redness and heat around the ears are often signs of conditions like ear mites, bacterial infections, or skin allergies. Scratching or head-shaking may accompany these symptoms, signaling discomfort.

💡 Tips for Handling Redness in Ears:

Inspect the Ears: Look for discharge, swelling, or foul odor.
Avoid Self-Treatment: Don’t use over-the-counter medications without veterinary guidance.
Seek Diagnosis: Visit your vet to determine whether the issue is an infection, allergy, or another condition.

🔍 Monitoring for Inflammation

Watch for signs of worsening inflammation, such as spreading redness, swelling, or increased sensitivity to touch. Prompt action can prevent complications and provide relief for your cat.

🤧 Hot Ears and Sneezing

If your cat’s hot ears are paired with sneezing, it could point to a respiratory issue. These symptoms are often seen with upper respiratory infections, which are common in cats.

🩺 Respiratory Illnesses and Ear Temperature

Upper respiratory infections can cause a mild fever, making your cat’s ears feel hotter than usual. Common culprits include viruses like feline herpesvirus or calicivirus. Sneezing, nasal discharge, and watery eyes are additional signs to watch for.

💡 Tips for Supporting a Cat with Respiratory Issues:

Maintain Clean Air: Reduce irritants like smoke or strong odors in your home.
Monitor Appetite: Cats with respiratory infections may eat less due to congestion.
Consult a Vet: Seek professional care for persistent symptoms or severe respiratory distress.

❄️ Evaluating Cold-like Symptoms in Cats

Not every sneeze or sniffle requires a vet visit, but prolonged symptoms or additional issues like fever, dehydration, or labored breathing warrant immediate attention.

💡 When to Seek Help:

If your cat has difficulty breathing or severe nasal discharge.
If symptoms persist for more than a few days.
If they stop eating or drinking.

🐾 When Ears Are Too Cold

While warm cat ears are a common concern, cold ears can also provide important insights into your cat’s health. A cat’s ears are thin and sensitive to temperature changes, making them susceptible to cooling. Understanding the causes and knowing how to respond ensures your feline friend stays comfortable and healthy.

❄️ Causes of Cold Cat Ears

Cold ears in cats can result from various factors, ranging from harmless environmental influences to more serious health concerns.

Common Causes:

Cool Environments: Cats exposed to cold weather or air conditioning may develop cold ears as part of their natural thermoregulation.
Poor Circulation: Conditions like heart issues or shock can reduce blood flow, leading to colder extremities, including the ears.
Illness: Hypothermia or certain diseases can cause body temperature to drop, making the ears feel cold.

💡 Quick Tip: Observe your cat’s behavior alongside their ear temperature. If they seem active and comfortable, the cold ears are likely harmless.

🔍 Differentiating Between Normal Cooling and Concerns

Not all instances of cold ears require action. Knowing when to worry can help you address potential issues promptly.

Normal Cooling:

The cat has recently been in a cool environment.
Their overall body temperature and activity level are normal.

Signs of Concern:

Persistent cold ears combined with lethargy or shivering.
Pale gums, which can indicate circulatory problems or shock.
A noticeable drop in body temperature, suggesting hypothermia.

💡 When to Seek Veterinary Help:

If your cat’s ears remain cold for an extended period.
If cold ears are paired with other worrying symptoms like weakness, pale gums, or rapid breathing.

🔥 Steps to Warm a Cat’s Ears Safely

If your cat’s ears feel cold and you suspect they need warming, it’s important to proceed gently to avoid overstimulating their body.

Move Them to a Warm Area: Ensure the environment is comfortably warm but not overheated.
Use a Soft Blanket: Wrap your cat in a cozy blanket, leaving their face exposed for easy breathing.
Apply Gentle Heat: Use a warm (not hot) compress wrapped in a towel to gently warm their ears. Avoid direct heat sources like heating pads on high settings.
Monitor Their Condition: Observe your cat’s behavior and body temperature during the process. If their ears remain cold despite these measures, consult a veterinarian.

💡 Pro Tip: Avoid forcing warmth on your cat if they resist. Stress can worsen their condition, so proceed calmly and carefully.

🐾 Why Your Cat’s Ears and Paws Are Hot

If you’ve noticed your cat’s ears and paws feeling unusually warm, you may wonder what’s behind this phenomenon. These areas play a key role in your cat’s heat regulation and can offer clues about their overall health. Understanding the relationship between their ears and paws and how heat distribution works in cats helps you distinguish between normal occurrences and potential health concerns.

🌡️ The Connection Between Paws and Ears in Heat Regulation

Cats’ ears and paws are thin-skinned and rich in blood vessels, making them highly efficient for thermoregulation. When a cat’s body needs to release heat, blood flow to these areas increases, causing them to feel warm.

Key Functions of Ears and Paws in Temperature Control:

Heat Dissipation: In warm environments, increased blood flow helps cool their body.
Temperature Conservation: In colder settings, blood flow decreases to retain heat.
Sensitive Sensors: Both ears and paws are highly sensitive to external temperature changes, allowing cats to adapt to their surroundings.

💡 Did You Know? Cats’ paw pads can sweat, which also helps regulate their body temperature on particularly warm days!

🔎 Investigating Heat Distribution Across the Body

While it’s normal for your cat’s ears and paws to feel warm occasionally, persistent heat or additional symptoms may indicate something more significant.

Possible Causes of Heat in Ears and Paws:

Environmental Heat: If your cat has been lying in a sunny spot or a heated area, their extremities may naturally feel warm.
Physical Activity: Play or exercise increases blood flow and body temperature, leading to temporarily warm ears and paws.
Stress or Excitement: Emotional changes can elevate heart rate and body temperature, warming these areas.
Fever or Illness: Persistent heat in the ears and paws, paired with other symptoms like lethargy or appetite loss, could signal a health issue.

💡 Tips for Monitoring Heat Distribution:

Check Their Gums: Healthy gums are pink and moist. Pale or sticky gums may indicate dehydration or illness.
Observe Behavior: Lethargy, hiding, or changes in appetite often accompany health-related warmth.
Take Their Temperature: Use a pet-safe thermometer to ensure their body temperature stays within the normal range of 100.5°F to 102.5°F (38.1°C to 39.2°C).

🐾 Diagnosing and Treating Hot Cat Ears

Hot ears in cats can sometimes signal an underlying issue, from mild environmental effects to more serious health conditions. Proper diagnosis and timely treatment ensure your cat remains healthy and comfortable. In this guide, we’ll explore how to observe symptoms at home, monitor vital signs, and determine when professional veterinary care is necessary.

🏠 At-Home Observations

Before jumping to conclusions, it’s important to make careful observations at home. Hot ears are often accompanied by other signs that can provide context for your cat’s condition.

Key Questions to Consider:

Has your cat been lying in a warm environment or sunbathing?
Are there any behavioral changes, such as lethargy or reduced appetite?
Do the ears show visible redness, swelling, or discharge?

💡 Tips for At-Home Monitoring:

Keep a journal of your cat’s symptoms, noting their frequency and intensity.
Gently touch their ears and observe if they react with discomfort.
Compare the warmth of their ears to other parts of their body, such as their paws or belly.

🌡️ How to Check Your Cat’s Temperature

Taking your cat’s temperature is one of the most reliable ways to assess their health.

Steps to Check Temperature:

Use a pet-safe digital thermometer.
Lubricate the tip with a water-based jelly or petroleum jelly.
Gently insert it rectally, following the instructions on the device.
A normal temperature ranges from 100.5°F to 102.5°F (38.1°C to 39.2°C).

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re uncomfortable taking your cat’s temperature, consult a vet for guidance or assistance.

🩺 Monitoring Other Vital Signs

Hot ears are often part of a broader health picture. Check for the following additional indicators:

Gums: Healthy gums are pink and moist. Pale, dry, or sticky gums may signal dehydration or illness.
Breathing: Observe for labored or irregular breathing patterns.
Behavior: Note changes like hiding, excessive grooming, or reduced activity.

🏥 Veterinary Care

If at-home observations raise concerns, it’s important to seek professional veterinary care to diagnose and treat the underlying cause.

📅 When to Visit the Vet

You should consult a veterinarian if:

The hot ears persist for more than a day.
Additional symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or fever are present.
There’s visible swelling, redness, or discharge from the ears.

🔬 Diagnostic Tests and Procedures

At the clinic, the vet may perform the following:

Physical Examination: Assessing the ears, paws, and other parts of the body for signs of irritation or infection.
Blood Tests: Checking for infections, dehydration, or other systemic issues.
Ear Swabs: Identifying mites, bacteria, or fungal infections under a microscope.
Imaging: In rare cases, X-rays or ultrasounds may be needed to rule out deeper issues.

💡 Aftercare Tips:

Follow your vet’s treatment plan, which may include antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, or lifestyle adjustments.
Keep the ears clean with vet-approved solutions. Avoid inserting anything into the ear canal without professional guidance.

🐾 Preventing Issues with Cat Ear Temperature

Maintaining a healthy ear temperature is essential for your cat’s overall well-being. By creating a comfortable environment, addressing stress, and keeping up with regular care, you can prevent potential problems before they arise. This guide outlines practical steps to ensure your cat’s ears stay healthy and balanced.

🏠 Ensuring a Comfortable Environment

Cats are highly sensitive to their surroundings, and temperature fluctuations can impact their ear health. Maintaining a stable environment can help regulate their body temperature and prevent issues.

Tips for a Comfortable Environment:

Moderate Room Temperature: Keep your home’s temperature consistent, avoiding extremes.
Provide Shade and Warm Spots: Offer shaded areas during hot weather and cozy blankets or beds in colder months.
Limit Sun Exposure: Cats love sunbathing, but prolonged exposure can overheat their ears. Ensure they have a shaded retreat.

💡 Pro Tip: Monitor your cat’s behavior—if they’re frequently moving between warm and cool spots, they’re naturally regulating their temperature.

😺 Managing Stress and Anxiety

Stress can influence a cat’s body temperature, including their ears. Reducing anxiety not only helps their emotional well-being but also supports physical health.

How to Reduce Stress in Cats:

Create a Safe Space: Provide a quiet area with their favorite toys and bedding.
Stick to a Routine: Cats thrive on predictability, so maintain consistent feeding and play schedules.
Use Calming Aids: Products like pheromone sprays or calming collars can help reduce anxiety.

💡 Did You Know? Stress can also affect your cat’s appetite and grooming habits, so be alert to these changes alongside ear temperature.

🩺 Regular Check-ups and Grooming

Routine care and grooming are vital for preventing ear-related issues and maintaining a healthy temperature.

Steps for Regular Ear Care:

Inspect Weekly: Check for redness, swelling, or unusual odors in your cat’s ears.
Clean Gently: Use a vet-approved ear cleaner to remove dirt or wax buildup. Avoid inserting objects into the ear canal.
Brush Regularly: Regular grooming prevents matting and helps detect any abnormalities early.

The Importance of Vet Visits:

Schedule annual check-ups to monitor your cat’s overall health.
If you notice persistent ear warmth, discuss it with your veterinarian during routine visits.

💡 Pro Tip: Early detection of ear-related issues can prevent more serious conditions, so don’t skip those regular check-ups!

FAQs About Cats and Ear Temperature

🌡️ Are warm ears a sign of fever in cats?

Warm ears alone are not always a sign of fever. A cat\’s ears can feel warm due to external factors, such as ambient temperature or recent activity. However, if warm ears are accompanied by lethargy, loss of appetite, or behavioral changes, it’s worth checking for a fever with a thermometer.

🤔 How can I tell if my cat’s ear temperature is normal?

A cat\’s ear temperature can vary depending on their activity and environment. If your cat’s ears feel warm but not overly hot, and they’re acting normal, it’s likely nothing to worry about. For an accurate temperature reading, use a rectal thermometer or consult your veterinarian.

❗ What should I do if my cat’s ears are hot and red?

Hot and red ears could indicate inflammation, infection, or an allergic reaction. Check for additional signs like scratching, discharge, or odor. If these symptoms are present, contact your veterinarian for an evaluation.

🥶 Is it normal for cats’ ears to feel cold sometimes?

Yes, it’s normal for a cat\’s ears to feel cold, especially in cooler weather or after being in a drafty area. However, persistently cold ears accompanied by signs of illness could suggest circulatory issues or shock, requiring medical attention.

😿 Can stress alone cause my cat’s ears to heat up?

Yes, stress can temporarily increase a cat’s body temperature, including their ears. This is known as stress-induced hyperthermia and usually resolves once the cat calms down.

🔥 Why do my cat’s ears and paws feel hot simultaneously?

If your cat’s ears and paws are both hot, it could indicate a fever, infection, or even a response to heat stress. Monitor for other symptoms like panting, lethargy, or loss of appetite, and consult a veterinarian if needed.

🌤️ What’s the difference between hot ears due to weather and a medical issue?

Hot ears caused by warm weather will usually cool down once your cat is in a cooler environment. If hot ears persist regardless of temperature changes or are paired with symptoms like redness, swelling, or discharge, a medical issue may be to blame.

🩺 Should I be worried if my cat’s ears are hot?

Occasionally warm ears are usually harmless, but consistently hot ears, especially with other symptoms like lethargy or discomfort, could warrant a veterinary check-up.

🖐️ Can you tell if a cat has a fever by touching their ears?

You cannot reliably determine a fever just by touching a cat\’s ears. Use a digital thermometer to measure your cat’s rectal temperature; a fever is typically a temperature above 102.5°F (39.2°C).

🥵 Should I be worried if my cat is hot?

If your cat feels hot overall and shows signs of discomfort, it could indicate fever, heatstroke, or hyperthermia. Monitor their behavior and contact a veterinarian if they seem unwell.

🐱 Why is my cat\’s head so warm?

A warm head is often normal, especially after napping or in warm environments. However, if your cat’s head feels unusually hot and they’re showing signs of illness, it may be a sign of fever or an underlying condition.