Evaluation of a Nondestructive Method for Determining Fat Stores in Small Birds and Mammals

Abstract

A rapid and nondestructive method for determining lean body mass and lipid stores in live animals is described. This technique relies on use of a commercial device to determine lean body mass from a noninvasive determination of total body electrical conductivity. The method yields adequate data for birds and mammals in a size range of 40-600 g if care is taken to ensure that animals are held in a standard position and are maintained at near normal levels of hydration and body temperature.