Ever wondered if you can check your livestock’s backfat thickness at home without professional help? With portable veterinary backfat scanners like the BXL series, it’s now possible! However, many farmers make simple mistakes during DIY measurements, leading to inaccurate results. Let’s break down the correct steps to use these devices effectively, so you can monitor your animals’ health like a pro.

Common Pitfalls in Home Use

One major issue farmers face is improper probe alignment. If the probe isn’t placed vertically against the skin, air bubbles or uneven contact can distort readings. For example, tilting the probe even slightly might show a 2mm error, which is enough to misjudge an animal’s condition . Another mistake is skipping skin preparation. Thick fur or dry skin blocks ultrasound waves, making readings unreliable. Some users rush through measurements without calming the animal, causing movement-related errors .

Step-by-Step Guide for Accurate Results

1. Prepare the Environment

Start by cleaning the measurement area on the animal’s back, ideally near the 3rd–4th rib, 3–5 cm from the spine. Trim excess hair if needed, but avoid shaving completely—short fur works fine. To keep the animal calm, gently pat or speak to it before starting. A relaxed animal ensures steady contact between the probe and skin .

2. Master Probe Alignment

Modern scanners like the BXL-V50 have built-in guides to help. Look for indicators like the “READ” light, which turns on when the probe is vertical. Press the probe firmly but gently against the skin to eliminate air gaps. If the screen shows no data, adjust the angle slightly and hold steady for 1–2 seconds .

3. Use Household Alternatives for Skin Prep

No professional gel? Apply a thin layer of cooking oil or baby oil to the skin. This creates a smooth surface for the probe and improves ultrasound transmission. Avoid using too much—a dime-sized drop is enough. Wipe off excess oil after measurement to prevent skin irritation .

Avoid These Mistakes

Don’t Trust a Single Reading

Backfat thickness can vary slightly across the same area. Measure 2–3 times within a 5 cm radius and take the average. For instance, if readings show 18mm, 20mm, and 19mm, 19mm is the reliable value. This reduces errors caused by temporary muscle twitches or uneven fat distribution .

Consider the Animal’s Age

Young animals have thinner, tighter skin, while older ones may develop looser or callused skin. Adjust pressure accordingly: lighter touch for younger livestock, firmer contact for older ones. For pigs over 2 years old, gently stretch the skin flat before placing the probe .

Why Farmers Love Portable Scanners

Take Mr. Zhang, a swine farmer from Henan, as an example. He uses his BXL scanner weekly to track backfat changes in breeding sows. By standardizing his process—same operator, same probe angle, same prep steps—he’s reduced measurement errors by 70% and optimized feed plans. “It’s like having a vet on call,” he says.

Final Tips

- Charge the scanner fully before use to avoid mid-measurement shutdowns.

- Clean the probe with a soft cloth after each session to maintain accuracy.

- Store the device in a dry place—moisture can damage internal parts.

With practice, you’ll master home backfat testing in no time. Remember, consistency is key!

link: https://www.bxlimage.com/nw/1169.html