An animal thermometer is a device used to measure the body temperature of animals. The method of measuring body temperature varies depending on the species, body size, and measurement method used. Common animal thermometers typically use electronic thermometers, infrared thermometers, or traditional mercury thermometers. The following are several commonly used temperature measurement methods for animal thermometers:
1. Electronic thermometer (digital thermometer)
Electronic thermometers are widely used tools for measuring animal body temperature, suitable for various animals including dogs, cats, cows, pigs, etc.
Measurement method:
Step 1: Choose the appropriate thermometer
Choose an appropriate electronic thermometer based on the animal's body size and usage scenario. For example, smaller animals such as cats and small dogs can use short thermometers, while larger animals such as cows and horses require longer thermometers.
Step 2: Preparation work
Check if the thermometer is working properly and ensure that the battery has sufficient power. The probe of the thermometer is usually disinfected with alcohol to avoid cross infection.
Step 3: Select the measurement location
Body temperature usually passes throughanusThe rectal measurement is the most accurate. For more sensitive animals, measurements can also be taken in the ear canal (especially for certain cats or dogs) or oral cavity.
Step 4: Measure body temperature
Gently insert the probe of the thermometer into the animal's rectum (about 2-3 centimeters) and keep the thermometer still until you hear the "beep" prompt sound or the number on the display screen stabilizes. Generally speaking, measuring anal temperature takes 1-2 minutes.
Step 5: Read the results
The thermometer will display numbers, record the results, and clean the thermometer. Ensure that the displayed temperature of the thermometer is within the normal body temperature range of the animal.
The normal range of animal body temperature:
Dogs and cats: 38.0 ° C-39.2 ° C
Cattle and sheep: 38.0 ° C-39.0 ° C
Pigs: 38.5 ° C-39.5 ° C
Horse: 37.5 ° C-38.5 ° C
2. Infrared thermometer
Infrared thermometers are commonly used to quickly measure the body temperature of animals, especially those that are not easily accessible or have a larger body size.
Measurement method:
Step 1: Preparation work
Ensure that the battery of the infrared thermometer is sufficient and clean the lens.
Step 2: Select the measurement location
Infrared thermometers generally obtain body temperature by measuring the surface of the ear canal, eye corner, or skin.
Step 3: Measure body temperature
Aim the infrared thermometer at the animal's ear canal or other parts, and measure according to the distance requirements in the instructions (usually a few centimeters to a dozen centimeters).
Step 4: Read the results
The infrared thermometer will display temperature results in a short period of time. This method is very fast and suitable for quickly assessing the body temperature of animals.
Note:
Infrared thermometers are suitable for measuring external body temperature, and for animals with low or high temperatures, the results may not be as accurate as rectal temperature.
3. Mercury thermometer (traditional thermometer)
Mercury thermometers used to be a commonly used tool for measuring body temperature, but now they have mostly been replaced by electronic thermometers due to their fragility and toxicity.
Measurement method:
Step 1: Preparation work
According to the instructions of the mercury thermometer, ensure that the mercury column returns to the low point and clean the thermometer.
Step 2: Select the measurement location
Similarly, animal rectum is usually chosen for measurement, but mercury thermometers can also be used for oral or ear canal measurements.
Step 3: Insert the thermometer
Gently insert the probe of the mercury thermometer into the animal's rectum and maintain stability. It usually takes 2-3 minutes to read the temperature.
Step 4: Read the results
Read the position of the mercury column and record the temperature value.
Step 5: Clean the thermometer
Clean the mercury thermometer with alcohol or disinfectant to ensure its safe storage.
Common problems and precautions:
When animals are uncooperative: If the animal is particularly uncooperative, you can gently comfort it with your hand before using a thermometer to avoid making the animal more nervous due to pain or discomfort.
When the body temperature is too low or too high: If the measurement results are abnormal, it is recommended to take appropriate medical measures as soon as possible and seek further diagnosis from a veterinarian.
Cleaning and Disinfection: After each use, the thermometer should be cleaned and disinfected to prevent bacterial transmission.
Pay attention to the differences among different animals: The normal range of body temperature varies among different animals, and measurements need to be adjusted according to the species of the animal.