Bovine: TPR Values & Injection sites

What is the normal temperature range for cattle?

38-39°C

What is the normal respiratory rate for cattle?

20-36 breaths/min

What is the normal heart rate for cattle?

50-80 bpm

Where are IM injections commonly administered in cattle?

In the lateral cervical neck muscles to avoid damaging meat

How should you position your hand when injecting into the neck?

One hand width ventral to the nuchal crest, one hand width dorsal to the jugular groove and one hand width cranial to the scapula

What are you avoiding when giving IM injections in the neck?

Avoiding the nuchal ligament, the jugular & cervical spine and scapular & pre-scapular lymph node

Where is the rumen located in cattle?

On the left side of the abdomen, just caudal to the 13th rib in the para lumbar fossa region. Filling most of the left flank.

What is the normal frequency of rumen contractions?

1-2 contractions per minute

How do you auscultate the rumen?

Place the stethoscope against the left paralumbar fossa (just behind the last rib and in front of the hip)

What do normal rumen sounds indicate?

Healthy digestion and gut motility

What might an absence of rumen sounds indicate?

Rumen stasis or serious digestive problems like bloat

What does hypermotility in the rumen (>2 sounds per minute) suggest?

Increased digestive activity, possibly due to irritation or dietary changes

What does hypomotility in the rumen (<1 sound per minute) suggest?

Reduced digestive activity, often caused by illness, dehydration, or metabolic issues