Rate of metabolic heat production and rectal temperature of steers exposed to simulated mud and rain conditions

Abstract

Rate of metabolic heat production and rectal temperature were measured in steers (n = 4) standing in 0 (control), 10, 25 and 50 cm of water and in steers standing in 50 cm of water that were also showered. The measurements were done at air temperatures of 0 and 15 °C. There was no significant difference in the rate of metabolic heat production of the steers due to the two air temperatures. However, there was an increase in the rate of metabolic heat production of steers that stood in 50 cm water and were showered; by 39–56% over control steers. Rectal temperature was not affected by either air temperature or treatment. Key words: Steers, mud, rain, heat production, rectal temperature