Hoof Thermometer
18 NOV 2018, updated NOV 2025
The following “Tip of the Day” is provided to assist you with horse and farm management. It is an idea developed by and/or used by Leslie Raulin. This tip is available to you at your own risk. Leslie Raulin does not make any claims or warranties nor does she have any financial interest in any products that may be mentioned.
My hand is not a very good thermometer! Every time I am concerned a hoof (or hooves) is/are warm, I wonder if my hand is telling me the truth. About nine years ago, I read an article on the internet (unfortunately, I do not recall the reference) that discussed using an infrared thermometer for measuring hoof temperature. I decided to give it a try.
NUBEE TEMPERATURE GUN NON-CONTACT INFRARED THERMOMETER
MAX DISPLAY ADJUSTABLE
There are many infrared thermometers available via Amazon.com and other sources. Since my barn colors are blue and white (and sometimes red, white and blue), I chose a blue one.
In 2018 this thermometer was sold for $35.15 on Amazon.com. Unfortunately, this specific product is no longer available; however, many similar products are available. For this product, according to Amazon.com:
- Red laser pointer for precise aiming
- Auto power shut off
- Distance spot ratio 16:1
- Engineered to high precision standards. Accurate readings from -58 to 1382 Degree F (-50 to 750 )
- Temp readings for current and max temperature
- Instant-Read with less than 1 second response time; auto shutoff at 15 seconds when idle
- Celsius and Fahrenheit switchable
- Standard 9v battery (included)
- Padded, protective carrying case with belt loop (included)
- Low battery indicator
- Ability to measure hazardous, inaccessible and moving objects
- US FDA, FCC, CE, ROHS approved
HOW I USE THE INFRARED THERMOMETER:
Whenever I have concern about a horse that may involve hoof problems, I use the thermometer to evaluate hoof temperature.
In the photos below, the horse was lame. With just a point on any spot on his hoof wall (take the mud off first!), I determined temperatures. His normal temperatures are in the low 60s. The vet discovered an abscess, which was treated with paring so the abscess could drain, and it quickly resolved.
I have been using this thermometer for about nine years. It has been helpful in establishing baseline temperatures, determining elevated hoof temperatures, and monitoring resolution of hoof problems. Enjoy!