B115
Checking Hydration (Skin Tent)

The eye and socket should be evaluated. If the eye appears sunken, the cow is probably dehydrated. The skin above the eye can also be pinched, checking for a skin tent.

This eye is normal, indicating proper hydration.

 

The loose skin on the side of the neck is another area for evaluation, checking for a skin tent.

 

The skin above the eye and around the neck should rapidly snap back and return to normal when released. If the skin remains raised or "tented," the cow is considered dehydrated.

The cow in this picture is normal.

See pages F143 and F145 for additional suggestions.

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