FFA Veterinary Science CDE Practice Test

Which condition in animals is characterized by an inability to maintain normal body temperature?

1. Hypothermia

2. Hyperthermia

3. Dehydration

4. Fever

The correct answer is: Hypothermia

Hypothermia is characterized by an inability to maintain normal body temperature due to excessive heat loss or insufficient heat production by the body. In animals, this condition typically occurs when they are exposed to cold environments, wet conditions, or when they are unable to generate enough internal heat, often due to illness, shock, or exhaustion. When an animal's body temperature drops below the normal range, it can lead to a variety of physiological disturbances and poses serious health risks if not addressed promptly. The other conditions listed do affect body temperature but in different ways. Hyperthermia involves an elevated body temperature, often from overheating or failure to dissipate heat, while dehydration refers to an imbalance of fluids in the body without a direct impact on regulating temperature. Fever indicates an increase in body temperature due to infection or other inflammatory responses but is not associated with the inability to maintain a normal temperature; rather, it represents an active physiological response.