Investigating the use of non-contact infrared thermometers in cats and dogs

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Hall, E.J. ORCID: 0000-0002-9978-8736, Fleming, A. and Carter, A.J. ORCID: 0000-0002-6216-2377, 2019. Investigating the use of non-contact infrared thermometers in cats and dogs. The Veterinary Nurse, 10 (2), pp. 109-115. ISSN 2044-0065

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Official URL: https://doi.org/10.12968/vetn.2019.10.2.109

Abstract

Background: Non-contact infrared thermometers (NCIT) provide a quick, hands off method of monitoring a patient’s body temperature. There are now animal specific NCIT devices available, however evidence for their use is currently lacking.

Aims: Evaluate the accuracy of two animal NCIT devices when compared to rectal temperature in anaesthetised cats, and ear temperatures in exercising dogs.

Methods: 27 cats undergoing routine neutering under anaesthetic, and 30 dogs competing in cross country races were recruited to the study. Eye temperature was measured with each of the NCIT devices and compared to rectal temperature (in cats) or ear temperature (in dogs).

Findings: Less than a third of the readings from both NCIT devices reported temperatures within 0.5°C of rectal temperature (in cats) and ear temperature (in dogs).

Conclusion: This study found poor agreement between the animal specific NCIT devices and both rectal and ear temperature, suggesting further research is needed before recommending these devices for clinical use.

Item Type:

Journal article

Publication Title:

The Veterinary Nurse

Creators:

Hall, E.J., Fleming, A. and Carter, A.J.

Publisher:

MA Healthcare

Date:

2 March 2019

Volume:

Number: