Abstract

Thermal imaging of feedlot cattle ears is a noninvasive diagnostic tool that aids in identifying properly placed or abscessed growth-promoting implants. Thirty-two calves were used to determine if abscessed and normal, functional implants could be identified and differentiated using infrared thermography. Infrared images were taken at implantation on days 2, 4, 7, 14, and 21 after implantation. Abscessed implants were easily identified. Use of thermal imaging can verify implant administration and, thus, has the potential to immediately impact feedlot quality assurance programs.

Keywords: Kansas Agricultural Experiment Station contribution, no. 97-309-S, Report of progress (Kansas State University. Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service), 804, Cattlemen's Day, 1998, Beef, Infrared thermography, Feedlot cattle

How to Cite:

Spire, M., Galland, J. & Drouillard, J. S., (1998) “Early detection of problem implants using infrared thermography”, Kansas Agricultural Experiment Station Research Reports 1(1), 118-120. doi: https://doi.org/10.4148/2378-5977.1925