What should you do to check mucus membranes if a patient is fractious?

Observing the mucous membrane color of the third eyelids or conjunctiva is a practical and effective approach when dealing with a fractious patient. In such cases, attempting to examine the oral cavity can be dangerous for both the patient and the handler, as a fractious animal may bite or struggle, making it difficult to safely assess the health of the oral mucosa.

By assessing the third eyelids or conjunctiva, you can evaluate the animal's hydration status and systemic health without direct manipulation of the mouth. The conjunctiva and third eyelids provide visible indicators of circulation and cardiovascular status, and a quick glance can inform you if the mucous membranes are pale, blue, or excessively red, which can indicate underlying issues such as shock or respiratory distress.

Checking nostrils for moisture may provide some information about hydration, but it does not offer the same comprehensive view of the overall mucous membrane health. Similarly, looking for discharge from the ears is less relevant in assessing the general mucous membrane state and focuses on a different area altogether. Thus, evaluating the third eyelids and conjunctiva serves as a reliable method to gauge the patient’s condition when handling is difficult.