ANAESTHESIA /SEDATION PREPARATION AND RECOVERY
If your pet is going to be sedated/anaesthetised it is of utmost importance to follow your veterinarian’s instructions and this guide.
Written for Dr Alessia Scerri DVM
The morning of the procedure (preparation)
Your pet must be fasted 10-12 hours before sedation/anaesthesia. Anaesthetised or sedated patients lose the normal reflex ability to swallow. If there is food in the stomach, the dog/cat could vomit while under anaesthesia/sedated, which can be dangerous.
Your pet may drink small amounts of water during the night but must be removed first thing in the morning.
You will be asked to sign a consent form. Please read this form carefully and advise of any other treatment required whilst your pet is under the anaesthetic/sedated e.g. nail clipping
Pre-operative blood tests - If you have a dog or cat being admitted for a procedure, you will be offered a pre-op blood test. This test allows us to check that your animal has no pre-existing problems that we may not be aware of.
During the Procedure
During the sedation/anaesthetic procedure your pet will be safely monitored by the veterinary nurses and vets carrying out the procedure.
After the procedure (recovery)
Recovery is one of the most important parts of the day.
Wait 3 hours after the procedure to feed your pet, allow your pet to wake up properly, and allow your pet's behaviour to return to normal.
It is normal for your pet to have a decreased appetite or not eat on the day after the procedure, you can offer fresh food the next morning. Please contact your veterinarian if your pet does not eat the next day.
Occasionally, animals may vomit after eating on the first night, so be sure to offer a small meal. (If vomiting persists, contact your veterinarian immediately).
Following dental procedures, offer soft food for the first few days unless other instructions have been given.
Keep your pet warm and comfortable (monitor that pet does not overheat).
Give medications as indicated. If you have any questions do not hesitate to contact your veterinarian.
Restrict exercise for the first 7-10 days if your pet has stitches. This means slow walks for dogs (no jumping or playing), and no jumping or playing for cats.
If your pet has been given an Elizabethan collar/ body suit, keep it on as instructed. Do not let the animal lick/chew the surgery site, wound or dressing and make sure they remain clean and not infected.
If you have any doubts about your pet's health following the procedure, please contact your veterinarian immediately.
Signs that can indicate problems include:
Lethargy and/or vomiting (particularly after 24 hours)
Excessive redness and irritation around the surgery site
Swelling at the surgery site
Bleeding or discharge from the wound