Not only veterinarians, but also farmers need to know what the temperature of calves is under normal conditions. This parameter determines the vital processes in the body of young bulls. By changing the value it is quite easy to diagnose the first symptoms of an incipient disease. Or gain firm confidence that nothing threatens the health of animals.
Normal temperature in calves
Temperature indicators in warm-blooded animals, like in humans, do not depend on the time of day or weather. Moreover, they are not related to the ambient temperature.For cattle, the range from 37.5 to 39.5 degrees Celsius is considered normal. But with some reservations. Cows have hot bodies, especially a couple of months before calving.
The temperature in calves is even higher. Moreover, the normal value of one-month-old cubs does not coincide with that of newborns. The following indicators are accepted for livestock breeders (data are given in degrees):
- up to 6 weeks of age – 38.5-40.5;
- in the period from 6 weeks to 2 months – 38.5-40.2;
- in the period from 2 months of age to 1 year – 38.5-39.8.
Thus, the older the animal becomes, the lower its temperature. These values are average values and may vary due to certain circumstances.
Possible reasons for the increase in the indicator
The very first version of a beginner who does not have sufficient experience as a livestock breeder - the calf fell ill. It is not without reason, but all factors must be taken into account to reach final conclusions. In addition, in order to judge certain symptoms and make a diagnosis, the qualifications of a veterinarian are required.
First, let's look at some typical misconceptions of cattle owners. Someone came up with the idea that the temperature indicator is somehow related to the hot (cold) nose of the calf. This is fundamentally wrong. Further, the temperature is measured not as in a person, under the armpit, contact, but only rectally, in the anus.
Farmers should be wary of significant (up to 1.2 degrees) emissions in both directions, both increasing and decreasing. The primary symptom of food poisoning, consumption of low-quality food, damage to the intestinal microflora by pathogens is an increase in body temperature.
In rare cases, there is a drop in body temperature. This is also a pathology associated with poisoning. For example, mushrooms, chemicals, and potent substances got into the food. The final diagnosis is made by a veterinarian. The owner should be alert to the behavior of the cattle, lethargy, anxious mooing, apathy or changes in body temperature.
How to take a calf's temperature
To control the indicator, it is necessary to carefully insert the thermometer into the anus without causing concern to the animal. In the absence of experience, it would be better to entrust this action to a veterinarian or enlist the help of someone else. Mercury and electronic devices are used.
In the first case, to obtain a reliable result, the measurement is carried out within 10 minutes. The second one is distinguished by its efficiency: within 15 seconds the measurement is ready. Before use, the device (sensor) is disinfected and lubricated with Vaseline. Before starting the procedure, hands are washed with soap and rubber gloves are used.
The animal should be restrained (restrained) to avoid injury. After the measurement, the procedure for processing the device is repeated. If this is not done, the entire herd may become infected.
