278 DISEASES OF CATTLE, SHEEP, GOATS, ETC. 



The temperature of a cow is usually between 101-102 degrees F.; 

 that of calves and of fat stock somewhat higher, while old cows and 

 those low in vitality usually show somewhat lower temperatures. 

 The following table will give an idea of the variations in tempera- 

 ture that may be noted in the same animal. There is also included 

 the pulse rate and number of respirations per minute. 



How Is the Temperature Taken? The temperature is taken 

 by means of a clinical or fever thermometer, which is inserted in 

 the rectum. In the fever thermometer, the mercury remains at 

 the highest point reached until it is shaken down. It is important 

 that the thermometer be accurate; the better grades are generally 

 sold with a certificate showing their relative accuracy. The quick- 

 ness with which a proper reading can be secured varies considerably, 

 depending upon the volume and shape of the bulb of the ther- 

 mometer, as well as the thickness of the glass walls. The one-min- 

 ute thermometer, i. e., those registering in that time, are too fragile 

 for general use in testing cattle. The two-minute veterinary ther- 

 mometer is preferable. It may be used with or without an open 

 metal case. The case protects the thermometer, but causes it to 

 act more slowly and makes it more difficult to read. Since the 

 thermometer cannot be read like an ordinary air thermometer, it is 

 essential that one receive personal instruction in the manipulation, 

 use and reading of the fever thermometer. 



How Are the Thermometers Used? It is important that before 

 insertion in the animal, each thermometer is shaken down so that 

 the mercury stands below 98 degrees F. Smear a little vaseline on 

 the bulb to render insertion easier, then insert the thermometer to its 

 full length in the rectum. It is important that some way be pro- 

 vided to fasten the thermometer to the animal so that it shall not be 

 lost or broken when excreta is passed. The bull dog clamp may be 

 snapped onto the long hairs at the root of the tail. The thermometer 

 should be allowed to remain in the animal at least three minutes. Re- 

 move, read, and record the reading. Shake down, noting the ther- 

 mometer to see that it records lower than 98 degrees F. If a person is 

 provided with a number of thermometers (3 to 6), temperatures can 

 be taken in a number of animals at once. Exposure in the animal for 

 longer than a three-minute period does not affect the accuracy of 

 results. 



Some animals object to the insertion of the thermometer, espec- 

 ially those not used to being handled. If the helper will scratch them 

 with a curry comb, no difficulty will usually be had. 



How Many Temperatures Should Be Taken in Order to Deter- 

 mine the Normal Temperature? At least three and preferably four 

 temperatures should be taken at intervals of two or three hours ; for 

 example, at 12, 2, 4, and 6 o'clock. Each animal should be marked so 

 there will be no danger of confusion. This can be done by placing a 

 gummed label on the hair near the hips. 



How Is the Tuberculin Injected? By means of a hypodermic 

 syringe, the tuberculin is injected beneath the skin, the most con- 

 venient place for injection being just back or in front of the shoul- 



