A method for monitoring an animal (2) with an autonomous monitoring device (1) in close proximity to the animal, the monitoring device having a first sensor and a second sensor of higher electric power consumption. The method includes measuring a first parameter with the first sensor, the second sensor being deactivated. An estimated status of the animal is determined based on the first parameter. If the estimated status corresponds to a particular status, the second sensor is activated and measures a second parameter which is used to determine a specified estimated status of the animal.
