Mucous membranes - normally moist and pink. Cyanosis, pale, icterus - watch for pigmentation. See text for an explanation of the wave forms. Palpation Arterial pulse Femoral artery best location in dog and cat. Should palpate bilaterally.
Facial artery is good in the horse.
Determine area of the apex by palpation. Beat is usually stronger on the left side. Determine presence or absence of precordial thrills. A thrill is a manifestation of a heart murmur which can usually be felt best with the palm of the hand. Abdomen Determine size of the liver.