Correlation and agreement between infrared thermography and a thermometer for equine body temperature measurements.

This study examines the accuracy of using infrared thermography (IRT) as a non-invasive measurement of horses’ body temperature compared with traditional rectal temperature (RT) measurements. The findings suggest that while IRT offers advantages in terms of minimal stress on horses, its results are significantly affected by environmental factors, showing no significant correlation with RT.

Objective of the Study

• This research aimed to assess the accuracy and potential use of IRT as an alternative method for measuring body temperature in horses. Due to IRT being a non-invasive technique and providing ease in terms of handling, the study analysed the temperature data collected via IRT and compared it to traditional rectal temperature measurements.

Methodology

• A total of 14 horses were subjected to temperature measurements. The researchers used a digital thermometer for collecting rectal temperature and a thermographic camera for infrared thermography at three different positions; center of body temperature (CBT), head temperature (HT), and eye temperature (ET).
• The measurements were carried out over a period of 30 days and repeated three times every day – morning, afternoon, and evening. This thorough repetition was done to cover potential variations in body temperature across different periods of the day.
• Environmental factors such as the ambient temperature, wind flow, light intensity, and humidity were indirectly recorded based on the time of day and use of cooling devices.

Findings

• The study found that the average values of RT, CBT, HT, and ET were 37.33°C, 34.08°C, 35.02°C, and 35.14°C, respectively. It was observed that all IRT measurements were lower than RT, with CBT having the largest deviation.
• However, it was remarkable that there was no significant correlation between RT and infrared temperature at any measurement position, suggesting an unpredictable accuracy in IRT measurements.
• The environmental factors, including the use of spray and vaporizer, significantly impacted the IRT results, highlighting the sensitivity of IRT to these factors.

Conclusion

• The study concludes that although IRT possesses advantages in terms of its non-invasiveness and causing less stress on horses, its accuracy and reliability are significantly affected by environmental variables. This warrants further research focusing specifically on understanding and controlling these environmental impacts on IRT measurements.