Small animal pet scales are usually used by veterinarians to weigh the most diminutive pets that come through their offices, such as cats, rodents, hamsters, lizards, birds or rabbits. There are many of these small animal pet scales on the market, and they vary greatly in size, portability, features, and price. Some aspects of these scales are uniform, however. Veterinarian grade small animal scales will have a digital display (preferably a graphics, LCD display), and have the ability to weigh by increments as small as a gram, but most measure in ounces and pounds as well. Almost all of the scales available currently feature a TARE button. A TARE button eliminates the weight of a previously weighed container or blanket. The scales tend to be small in size, and are usually meant to sit on a bench or countertop, although not all are easily portable. Some veterinarian grade small animal pet scales come with special amenities. The more bells and whistles a scale has, the more it tends to go up in price; costs range from under $500 to close to $1000. A few common special features of high end small animal pet scales include:
- Portability; portable small animal pet scales will have the ability to run off either batteries or an AC adapter. Usually a scale that can run off batteries will have a low battery indicator, and some will automatically shut off after several minutes of inactivity to conserve battery life. In some cases, the battery pack may be rechargeable, offering increased convenience and lower long term costs.
- Some more recently designed scales feature a USB port, which allows the vet to download data directly from the scale; a few even are Bluetooth compatible!
- Advanced technology is available in some scales that compensates for movement and gives the veterinarian the most accurate data possible.
- Many scales will continue to display the animal’s weight for several minutes after it has been removed from the platform, allowing the doctor to care properly for the animal without having to rush to write down the information or be concerned about remembering that information correctly.
- Stainless steel platforms are easy to clean but can be stressful for the animals that may slide on the slippery surface. Many small animal pet scales are now outfitted with rubber mats.
- Load sensors are the devices that actually convert weight into an electronic signal. While most scales use aluminum sensors, stainless steel units are much more reliable and rugged.
- Some scales can do double duty. These larger scales can weigh animals up to 500 hundred pounds but are still capable of accurately gauging the weight of very small animals.
- Perches are occasionally included to make weighing avian pets much easier.
- Occasionally the digital display will be detachable from the scale and will work up to several feet away from the scale. This may be desirable in certain office layouts.
- Likewise, some small animal pet scales are designed with detachable platforms. The platform is meant to be removed from the base of the scale for easy, frequent cleaning. Some scales will also have a removable spill guard.
- Manufacturer’s warranties are often available and are always a great idea when purchasing electronic equipment that is of vital importance to a business.
