Review: Application of Infrared Thermography in Livestock Monitoring

HighlightsAs a non-invasive temperature detection technology, IRT can provide dynamic information on skin temperature changes caused by physiological processes of livestock.IRT will become a more valuable detection tool for evaluating various signs and behavior changes of livestock.With the continuous development of information technology, it is necessary to use IRT to explore more expected and innovative information.Abstract. Infrared thermography (IRT) is a non-invasive temperature detection technology characterized by non-destructive, long-distance measurement and high sensitivity. IRT measures mid-wave to long-wave infrared radiation emanating from objects and converts this radiation into visual images or videos of the temperature distribution and temperature changes. Because temperature is an important environmental parameter that affects livestock physiology and metabolic heat production, measurement of animal temperature and energy exchange in field environments is a useful tool for understanding physiological changes in animals. Traditional measurement methods of animal temperature are extremely time-consuming and labor-intensive. As a non-contact method, IRT provides a new method for physiological data acquisition. However, IRT is also subject to a number of uncertainties, thus requiring optimal modeling using built-in software. Therefore, this study reviews applications of IRT in livestock production, including reproduction, growth, and diseases, and discusses some of the better-known approaches and the latest research findings for IRT in livestock production. Keywords: Diseases, Growth, Infrared thermography, Reproduction.