What is the normal range for capillary refill time (CRT)?

Capillary refill time (CRT) is a vital clinical measure used to assess peripheral perfusion and the circulatory status of an animal. In healthy dogs, the normal range for capillary refill time is typically about 1 to 2 seconds. This is because a CRT of around 2 seconds indicates adequate blood flow and oxygen delivery to the tissues, signifying a well-functioning cardiovascular system.

If the CRT extends beyond 2 seconds, it may raise concerns regarding compromised blood circulation, hypovolemia, or other circulatory issues that would need further investigation. Therefore, indicating that a normal CRT is about 2 seconds aligns with established veterinary standards, highlighting the importance of this time frame in clinical assessments.