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Capillary Refill Time (CRT) in Dogs & Cats

Capillary Refill Time (CRT) in Dogs & Cats

Updated On November 1st, 2024

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Reviewed By Petco's Veterinarian Team

**Q.** How does CRT assess blood flow? **A.** To assess blood flow, your veterinarian may press and then release your pet's gums with a finger firmly but should not cause pain or discomfort in doing this, your veterinarian is checking your pet's CRT or 'capillary refill time'. There are many small blood vessels called capillaries in an animal's gums. When an area of the gum is pressed, blood is forced out of these capillaries. When the pressure is released, the blood should almost immediately refill the capillaries.

The normal time it takes for the capillaries to refill in the dog and cat is 1-2 seconds. Anything longer than that may indicate your pet has a prolonged capillary refill time. A prolonged capillary refill time (CRT) occurs when the blood is not flowing adequately and may indicate a health concern such as dehydration or anemia. This can also occur if the pet is in, or is going into, shock, and in certain heart diseases. Taking the CRT is a fast and easy measurement which may indicate the pet has a serious condition. Any concerns with your pet’s CRT should be discussed with your veterinarian.

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