How is body temperature typically measured in animals?

Body temperature in animals is most commonly measured rectally because this method provides the most accurate reflection of the internal body temperature. The rectum is situated close to the body's core, so temperatures taken here accurately reflect the body’s true thermoregulation status. This is especially important in clinical settings where precise body temperature readings are crucial for diagnosing conditions such as infections or other health issues.

While oral measurements can be used in some smaller or more submissive animals, it is less reliable because animals may not tolerate oral thermometers, and the readings can vary based on several factors, including the animal’s behavior and environment. Infrared thermometers are useful for quick assessments and can be non-invasive; however, they may not always provide accurate core temperature readings as they measure surface temperature. Axillary measurements are less common and generally considered the least accurate since the axillary region does not maintain a consistent core temperature.

Therefore, rectal measurement is the standard best practice for assessing body temperature in veterinary medicine.