The 10 Best Horse Thermometer 2021 (Reviews & Guide)

When it comes to determining whether your horse is in health, it is best left to the professionals. However, since you can’t run to your physician every time you spot a change in the behavior of your horse, you should know a few tricks yourself. One of the most efficient instruments for determining the well-being of your horse is the best horse thermometer. Available in different types and prices, horse thermometers let you read horse temperatures to detect changes in their health. The question is, how can you buy the best horse thermometer?

Types of Horse Thermometers In The Market?

There are primarily two types of horse thermometers that are used to measure horse temperature. This includes digital thermometers and conventional ones. In case it looks confusing, think of it as the classic type and the modern type. As expected, the conventional or classic thermometers have been around for a while. As a result, this type cannot boast of as much accurate reading as the digital ones.

Non-touch Thermometer

This type of thermometers features infrared radiations that make it easy to use. Although it is the most expensive of the two types, it is more effective. Advanced technological design lets you use the device from a distance to take readings of your house. This eliminates queasy feeling when you are trying to take the temperature of your house and makes your readings more accurate.

Inserted thermometer

This type works by insertion. As the name implies, you have to insert the device into the ears or anus of the horse before you can measure the temperature. Although it gives you a more hands-on approach to taking readings, it is more stressful both for the horse and the handler. On the upside, though, it is less expensive.

Top 10 Best horse thermometer

Zoo Med Digital Thermometer

The first product on our list is the Zoo Med Digital Thermometer. The battery-powered thermometer, although it does not have a display light, is very easy to read. The probe has a suction cup that prevents the probe from touching the side of the container. The suction cup also lets you mount the device to the exterior of a container. This way, you can easily read the temperature. The probe is also long enough and durable for handy use. In all, the unit is easy to read.

Pros 

• Fast reading
• Suction cup
• Mountable design

Cons 

• Some customers did not get the promised battery

Hurinan Animal Electronic Ehermometer Pet Thermometer

The Hurinan Animal Electronic Ehermometer Pet Thermometer works for all pets and animals including the horse. Designed to give fast and accurate rectal temperature readings, the device is small and easy to use. Measuring the 3-inch long, small size of the thermometer makes it handy. Plus, it is safe to use and reduces stress both for the animal and the handler. The exterior is smooth and sturdy and does not require a probe cover. To use, it features a ready to use button and a large easy-to-read 4-bit LCD screen. You can disinfect the device after use by washing with alcohol and soap.

Pros 

• Waterproof
• 90-days money-back guarantee
• Celsius and Fahrenheit are switchable

Cons 

• Does not give a six-seconds result as advertised

Pet Clinic Thermometer for Dog, Cat, Rabbit and All Pets

Another excellent product that qualifies among the best horse thermometers is the Pet Clinic Thermometer for Dog, Cat, Rabbit, and All Pets. Designed for use on all pets, the thermometer works on a horse with the same efficiency as it does on other pets. The device features a switchable Celsius and Fahrenheit, plus, it lets you take your horse’s temperature from a distance. This is thanks to its no-contact design. As a result, the risk of irritating your horse is reduced. For the best result, we recommend that you clean your horse’s ear before aiming the probe.

Pros 

• 32 memories recall
• Measures air, milk, and water surface temperature
• Distant measurement

Cons 

• Won’t give the most accurate result with a single reading

Aurynns Horse Anus Thermometer Fast Digital Veterinary Thermometer

Designed to give a fast and accurate reading, the Aurynns Horse Anus Thermometer Fast Digital Veterinary Thermometer measures temperature in oral or anus. Suitable for large and small animals, the device takes the temperature within 20 seconds. There is an alarm system on the device that indicates if the temperature exceeds the normal range. It also switches off automatically to increase the life of the device.

Pros 

• LCD
• Automatic shutoff
• Easy operation

Cons 

• Big size

[Upgraded 2020 Model] H Highmex Thermometer

The new and improved H Highmex Thermometer works as an oral and rectal thermometer for humans and animals. Designed for fast 10 seconds reading, the thermometer provides clinically precise readings. It features a built-in waterproof design for usage under any condition. The tip is also flexible enough to prevent irritation during use. Plus, it displays temperature in Celsius and Fahrenheit. There is a plastic case that lets you store the device with ease.

Pros 

• Waterproof design
• Plastic cover case
• Flexible tip

Cons 

• The sound cannot be turned off even when it is loud

SHARPTEMP-V 5-Inch Stainless-Steel Probe With Rounded Tip

Arguably one of the best thermometers for a horse, the SHARPTEMP-V 5-Inch Stainless-Steel Probe With Rounded Tip is safe for use on all pets and farm animals. The digital thermometer is versatile and rugged to withstand everyday usage. The device measures 5-inches and features a rounded tip for easy use. It also gives a fast reading in about 10 seconds depending on the condition of use. Plus, the LCD is large for easy reading. This plus an audible beep tells you when the accurate temperature is reached. Not just this, it shuts off after 9-minutes of use. The design of the device lets you use it for rectal and oral use in animals.

Pros 

• Tough body design
• Versatile and safe
• Auto-shutoff

Cons 

• Reads Fahrenheit only

Pavia Rectal Temp Thermometer

Manufactured by Pavia, the Pavia Rectal Temp Thermometer lets you take the temperature of your horse with ease. Although the probe is not flexible, a non-petroleum lubricant with the product helps with tissue content for a more consistent reading. The rectal thermometer reduces the stress of use with its simple design. More than use for horses, the device works for dogs, cats, and other farm animals. The product is powered by regular batteries and is decently-sized to reduce the chance of losing it inside the horse. The ability to switch readings from Celsius to Fahrenheit is another exciting feature of the product.

Pros 

• Convenient
• Regular batteries
• Not expensive

Cons 

• The probe is not flexible

Quick Reading Digital Waterproof Oral Thermometer

The Quick Reading Digital Waterproof Oral Thermometer by Sanpu comes with a fever indicator and memory recall. This lets you keep track of previous readings and indicates when you need to call the vet. Although the device is designed for humans, it also comes in handy for checking the temperature of your horse. A soft and flexible silver probe tip and superior microchip provide accurate rectum and oral measurement. The unit features an automatic beep that indicates over-temperature. It is also convenient, portable, and easy to use.

Pros 

• Lightweight and portable
• 30 seconds reading
• Waterproof and easy to clean

Cons 

• The battery is not the strongest on the market

Zoo Med Labs Digital Thermometer Humidity Gauge

The Zoo Med Labs Digital Thermometer Humidity Gauge not only lets you read the temperature, but it also works as a humidity gauge. Designed with a waterproof probe, the device is easy to clean for lasting use. Plus, it gives a digital readout and is easy to read.

Pros 

• Waterproof probe
• Easy to read
• Humidity gauge

Cons 

• Not eligible for return

Cotran 5″ Mercury Free Temperature Glass String Equine Livestock Thermometer

Last on our list is the Cotran 5″ Mercury Free Temperature Glass String Equine Livestock Thermometer. The device measures temperature in Fahrenheit and features an alligator clip and cord. There is a convenient storage case that lets you store, transport, and protect the thermometer for lasting use.

Pros 

• Easy transport
• Mercury-free
• Alligator cord

Cons

• No return after 30 days

How To Use A Horse Thermometer?

Our review will be incomplete without showing a few pointers that will help you take your horse’s temperature. Let’s start with the conventional or inserted thermometer. Since this type of thermometer is usually inserted into the ears or anus of the animal, you will need to keep it in a position for a few minutes. By implication, your hands must be calm and the horse needs to stay still. The digital type, on the other hand, is less stressful and is faster.

Although there is no hard and fast rule to it, let us show you some tips that will prove helpful.

• Ask for help. Simple right. The fastest and the most effective way to take your horse’s temperature is to ask for help. Your helper can hold the head of your horse, tie it down, or simply distract it while you take the reading.
• Do not stay behind your horse. Instead, stay beside the hind leg. This step is crucial as it eliminates the risk of getting wiped out by a kick to the back.
• For an inserted thermometer, slightly light up its tail or ears with one hand and insert the thermometer’s tip into the rectum or ear. To make the process easier, we recommend that you lubricate the tip of the thermometer. However, maintain a firm grip on the device to prevent it from slipping out of place.
• Remove the device and repeat the process until you are satisfied with the result. Do note though, that you should take the temperature between the morning and the afternoon. Not in the morning as temperatures might be slower, and not after an exercise as it might be higher.
• The target temperature level for a mature is 38.6-degrees Celcius or 101.5 Fahrenheit, while it is 38.9-degree or 102 Fahrenheit for a foal. Any reading higher than this could be an indication of an illness or infection.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I have to have a thermometer as a horse owner?

Yes, you have to have a thermometer as a horse owner. We know that you are as concerned about the health of your horse as we are, hence, the more reason why you should have one. A personal thermometer lets you keep track of your horse’s temperature, monitor changes or improvements, and know when the horse needs medical attention.

Can I tell the temperature of my horse by looking at it?

If you can tell your horse’s temperature by looking at it, we guess we won’t have anything called the horse thermometer. You cannot get a precise reading by feeling parts of your horse. For the most accurate result, we recommend that you purchase a thermometer.

What is the brand of thermometer to buy?

We cannot conclusively decide on the best brand of thermometer out there, however, we can guarantee the ones we have reviewed above. Why? Because we have reviewed the good side and the not too good side, and have found that the good far outweighs the negative sides. A certification that we can’t give for other products out there. Check out any of the products listed above to get value for your purchase.

Can I buy a regular thermometer for my horse?

While some regular thermometers work also on horses, we cannot speak for all the products on the market. We recommend that you check the product to see a certification to use on all pets or farm animals. If the manufacturer does not guarantee safe usage, we advise that you don’t use it. Needless to say, you don’t need to search for a regular thermometer when we have reviewed horse thermometers for you above.

Conclusion

All things considered, an investment in the best horse thermometer is one of the best decisions you can make for the wellbeing of your horse. This is because it helps you detect signs of possible ailments and avoid an awful tragedy.