Some electrocardiographic values of Angora goats

Abstract

Electrocardiography is a noninvasive and easily applied technique used in the determination of cardiac hypertrophy and dilatation, the classification of cardiac arrhythmias, and the diagnosis of conduction abnormalities. The aim of this study was to determine the normal electrocardiographic (ECG) values in Angora goats. A total of 30 healthy Angora goats of both sexes, ranging in age from 1 to 2 years, were used in the study. The 3 standard bipolar limb leads (I, II, III) and unipolar augmented limb leads (aVR, aVL, aVF) were recorded with the goats standing. The morphology and amplitude of P waves, QRS complexes, and T waves were analyzed in all leads. Cardiac rhythm, heart rate, and the durations of P, QRS and T waves, as well as the PR interval and QT interval, were calculated in the limb leads. The mean electrical axis for each individual was determined from the net amplitude of the QRS complex in leads I and III. Most of the animals had sinus rhythm. The mean heart rate was 108.71 +/- 3.289 per minute and ranged from 75 to 143. The mean electrical axis was between -178 degrees and +170 degrees. In conclusion, the findings presented here may be useful to clinicians and researchers as reference values for the normal ECG of Angora goats.