Pet Anesthesia
If your pet needs surgery, even a routine surgery such as spaying or neutering, it is not uncommon to worry. Most pet owners worry when they know their fur babies will be going under anesthesia. If your pet is scheduled for surgery, it is important to understand pet anesthesia. At Randolph Animal Hospital in Randolph, MA, our veterinarian will explain the anesthesia process and answer your questions so you are not worried about your pet.
Preparing for Pet Anesthesia
Preparing your pet for anesthesia is essential in preventing complications. The evening before your pet’s appointment, it can have a regular evening meal, and then no access to food until after the surgery. If your pet eats, there is a chance it could vomit during the surgery. If it aspirates the vomit, it can get into your pet’s lungs. Your pet can have water right up until the time you leave.
Anesthesia Safety
There is a minor risk of complications when your pet has a procedure that requires anesthesia. The most common complication is sleepiness after the procedure, which will subside within the first few hours after your pet comes home. The more serious complications include aspiration, pneumonia, and anaphylactic reactions. These complications are rare and are more common in pets who are in poor health.
Studies have shown that pets older than 12 have a higher risk of anesthesia complications than younger pets. If your pet needs a non-essential surgery and is old or ill, our vet will weigh the benefits of the surgery against the risk of complications to determine whether or not it is worth it for your pet to have the procedure.
Preventing Complications
During your pet’s procedure, our vet tech will assist our veterinarian. We will constantly monitor your pet’s vital signs and its condition while under anesthesia. If anything happens while your pet is under anesthesia, it will be detected immediately. When the procedure is complete, your pet will be closely monitored in the recovery room until the anesthesia wears off.
Caring for Your Pet after Anesthesia
If your pet comes home the same day of the procedure, it is not uncommon for it to be groggy from the anesthesia. Your pet will need a comfortable place to sleep in your home, away from children and other pets. Your pet can eat after returning home, but you should follow our vet’s dietary instructions if any were given. The next day, your pet should start feeling more like itself. However, if your pet is in pain, it may need more time to rest. If you notice any strange behavior or your pet stays groggy, contact our vet immediately.
Contact Our Veterinarian in Randolph, MA for Information on Pet Anesthesia
If your pet is scheduled for a procedure that requires pet anesthesia, we will ensure that you are prepared. At Randolph Animal Hospital in Randolph, MA, our veterinarian will discuss any questions or concerns you have before the procedure. We will also give you a list of before and aftercare instructions to help you properly care for your pet and keep it comfortable. Call us today at 781-963-2298 to schedule an appointment or contact us online to learn more.