What is usually measured to assess the health of a patient in a veterinary clinic?

Temperature is a critical vital sign that is routinely measured to assess the health of a patient in a veterinary clinic. It provides immediate insights into a pet's physiological state; for instance, an elevated temperature can indicate an infection or inflammatory response, while a lower-than-normal temperature may suggest hypothermia or shock. Monitoring temperature is a fundamental practice because it helps veterinarians make rapid assessments and decisions regarding the care needed for the animal.

Weight, blood pressure, and height also offer important information about a patient's health, but they are not as universally used as temperature for immediate assessment. Weight can indicate obesity or malnutrition, while blood pressure can reveal cardiovascular issues. Height is less relevant in most veterinary assessments, especially because animals vary widely in size and shape, making it a less standardized measure. Therefore, temperature is prioritized as a direct indicator of health status in veterinary practices.