The surface electrocardiogram in domestic ferrets.

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Cardiology
• Comparative Physiology
• Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

• Electrocardiography (ECG) is crucial for assessing cardiac health in domestic animals.
• Establishing normal reference ranges is essential for accurate interpretation of ECG findings.
• Limited data exists on the influence of recumbency position on ferret ECG parameters.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine if recumbency position affects surface electrocardiogram (ECG) values in ferrets.
• To establish normal surface ECG values for clinically normal domestic pet ferrets in two recumbency positions.

Main Methods:

• Surface ECGs were recorded from 80 healthy ferrets using standard limb leads.
• Recordings were performed in right lateral and sternal recumbency under ketamine/diazepam anesthesia.
• Data were analyzed retrospectively, comparing values between positions, age, and gender.

Main Results:

• Significant differences in mean electrical axis, P wave amplitude, R wave amplitude (leads I, II), and Q/S wave amplitude (lead I) were found between recumbency positions.
• Heart rate was higher in younger ferrets; no gender-based differences were observed.
• Clinical significance of P and Q wave amplitude variations was noted with caution.

Conclusions:

• Recumbency position is a significant factor influencing ECG recordings in ferrets.
• The study provides suggested normal surface ECG values for ferrets in specific recumbency positions under sedation.
• These findings aid in the accurate interpretation of ferret ECGs in clinical practice.