Ask A Scientist© Biology Archive

Author:      amj
Text:        Is it possible to get the heart rate of a mouse without special 
equipment?

Response #:  1 of 1
Author:      wizkid
Text:        If you have a very tame pet mouse who will allow you to hold him 
in your hands, try feeling the body-side of his arm, near his "arm-pit"  with 
your index finger.  Another place to feel is the body-side of his thighs, near 
his groin area.  (Do not use your thumb, because you might feel your own 
pulse).  You should be able to feel his pulse.  To get the heart rate, count 
how many beats you feel in 60 seconds (1 minute).  Remember that his heart 
rate may be slightly faster than normal when you are holding him, because he 
might be nervous.  An interesting little experiment would be to take his heart 
rate at different times in the day (morning, after eating, afternoon, evening, 
etc.) to see if there is any changes.