Cellular Blood Constituents and Serum Protein Fractions of the Chinchilla (Chinchilla Lanigera)

The study described the hematology and serum proteins of the chinchilla, reporting mean values for erythrocyte count (7.2 × 10^6/cmm), leukocyte count (8.7 × 10^3/cmm), hematocrit (41.9%), and hemoglobin (14.7 g/100 ml). A high proportion of lymphocytes (65.7%) was observed, with no significant age effect on these blood constituents. Serum protein analysis revealed at least 13 distinct bands, and variations in transferrin to albumin ratios were noted during March and April, potentially linked to pregnancy or hair growth. Significant individual variation was found in albumin and globulin levels, with age-related effects on the albumin–globulin ratio.