When your cat or dog needs to undergo procedures like dental cleaning or surgery, your vet may have to administer anesthesia to reduce discomfort during treatment. You may have heard several misconceptions about pet anesthesia, so Miami Shores Animal Clinic of Miami, FL, sheds light on this procedure to ensure your pet gets the most out of this treatment.
What Is Anesthesia?
Anesthesia is controlled unconsciousness to ensure your pet doesn’t move or feel pain when the vet is performing the procedure. Obviously, you don’t want your pet to feel pain, but they shouldn’t move because some procedures require precision. If your pet moves, this may cause more harm.
What to Expect before the Vet Administers Anesthesia
Before administering anesthesia, your veterinarian will perform several medical tests to establish your pet’s health. We also run through the medical history and discuss anesthesia risk factors. Your vet will carry out blood work to ensure that your pet doesn’t carry significant anesthetic risk.
Your vet will likely advise you not to feed your pet about 12 hours before the procedure. Anesthesia may trigger nausea and vomiting, hence the reason to avoid feeding your pet. Before administering the anesthesia, your vet may administer pre-anesthesia sedation to calm your pet. This can either be done through a mask (inhaling) or intravenously.
When your vet is under anesthesia, your vet monitors the vital organs to ensure they perform as they should. Depending on the procedure, fluids/medications may be administered intravenously to check blood pressure. A tube could also be used to ensure your pet’s lungs receive oxygen. We continuously monitor your pet’s temperature, heartbeat, and breathing rate for a safe outcome.
Is Pet Anesthesia Safe?
You definitely have concerns when undergoing anesthesia, so it’s understandable when you become concerned about anesthesia in your pet. Like any medical procedure, anesthesia has risks that range from mild to severe. Mild side effects include vomiting as the medication fades off. Severe anesthesia complications include cardiac arrest and even death.
Anesthesia-related deaths are rare, but the chances of them happening depend on the health condition of your pet. Your vet is always well-prepared to handle anesthesia complications that may occur. Ultimately, weighing the risks of anesthesia versus the benefits is essential. In an emergency situation, the risk of anesthesia is minimal compared to skipping the procedure. For elective procedures, you can postpone the administration of anesthesia if it poses a significant risk to your pet.
Safe Pet Anesthesia in Miami, FL
Whether your pet is undergoing surgery or any other procedure that requires anesthesia, you can count on Miami Shores Animal Clinic. We offer top-notch vet care services to ensure your pet lives healthy, happier lives. Contact us today at (305) 757-3030 for an appointment.