Introduction

Chinchillas are becoming a popular pet in households. Few studies have been performed in the Chinchilla lanigera, specifically regarding the cardiovascular system. This is a difficult animal to study in the clinical setting.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to ascertain if electrocardiographic (ECG) recording in Chinchilla lanigera can be performed without chemical restraint and if lead II measurements of these recordings could be assessed.

Methods

A six-lead ECG was recorded in 45 chinchillas held in a vertical position without the use of chemical restraint. An average of 3 values from lead II. Descriptive statistics were performed with Microsoft Excel.

Results

ECG were successfully recorded in 45 chinchillas. ORS morphologies included qRs (n=12), qR (n=39), QS (n=15), Qr (n=1), R (21), RS (n=11), Rs (n=2), rS (n=34). P-wave amplitude (0.0,035+0.019 mV) and duration (0.025+0.008s), PR-interval (0.060+0.020s), R-wave amplitude (0.126+0.098mV), ORS complex duration (0,044+0,005s), QT-interval (0.100+0.000s), ST-­segment elevation (0.025+0.039 mV), T-wave amplitude (0,080+0.061 mV), mean electrical axis (69.474+62.256) and heart rate (205+18) measurements were performed. Leads I and aVR had higher amplitudes than lead II. No abnormal rhythms were recorded.

Conclusions

ECG recording can be successfully performed in chinchillas without chemical restraint with the animals in a vertical position, limbs directed to the examiner. Lead II measurements are feasible and values that may be used as guidelines are given, however, lead I and aVR are clearer to read and more studies are warranted to obtain reference ranges.