Which of the following is not an abnormal characteristic of mucus membranes?

Mucous membranes serve as an important indicator of a dog's overall health, with their characteristics revealing crucial information about the animal's physiological state. In assessing these membranes, the ideal appearance is pink and moist, which indicates normal oxygenation and hydration levels.

When the mucous membranes are described as pink and moist, this signifies that the tissue has a healthy blood supply and appropriate moisture levels, which are both essential for proper function. This contrasts with other characteristics such as hyperemic, pale, or cyanotic, which indicate abnormalities. Hyperemia suggests increased blood flow and can denote inflammation or infection, pale membranes can indicate shock or anemia, while cyanosis indicates a lack of oxygen in the blood, pointing to serious health issues. Thus, the choice of pink and moist as not an abnormal characteristic is correct because it represents the normal state of mucous membranes.