THE RECTAL TEMPERATURE OF THE NORMAL RABBIT

Abstract

Observations on 33 adult rabbits (4 breeds weighing 1 to 7 kg.) show that accurate body temp. measurements require insertion of the thermometer 75 mm. or more in the rectum. Environmental temps. between 10[degree] and 28[degree] do not affect the rectal temp. if the rabbit has been living at the same temp. for at least 24 hrs. When the air temp. is raised to 32[degree], there is a temporary elevation of the body temp., but this disappears after a 24-hr, adaptation. At 28[degree] C. fasting to as long as 3 wks. does not affect the body temp. Ingestion of food causes only a slight increase. No sex difference and no diurnal variation in rectal temp. of rabbits, either fed or fasting (up to 60 hrs.), were found. The normal body temp. ranges from 38.4[degree] to 41.1[degree] C. and avgs. 39.6[degree] C.