Post-Anaesthetic Care
Looking After Your Pet After An Anaesthetic
It can take a while for the drugs used in an anaesthetic to leave the body – your pet may be sleepier than normal for 12 – 24 hours after their anaesthetic. This is usually nothing to be concerned about, however they should be able to get up and walk around when stimulated and if not please call the surgery as this may indicate they need veterinary attention.
You should keep your pet indoors for the rest of the day, in a warm, quiet place. This is because an anaesthetic procedure can affect your pet’s ability to control their body temperature.
Occasionally, a slight cough will be noted after surgery, this is normally due to irritation caused by the endotracheal tube that is used in the anaesthetic and should resolve within 48 hours.
Please follow the instructions on the label of any medication carefully. If you are having difficulty getting your pet to take their medications, please contact us.
Medication
Please follow the instructions on the label of any medication carefully. If you are having difficulty getting your pet to take their medications, please contact us.
Feeding
We will offer your pet a small meal after surgery (unless you have advised us not to), but they should also be offered a small meal at home (they can be fed their normal food).
If they do not eat at home the evening of the surgery, in most cases you do not need to be overly concerned, but their appetite should return within 24 hours- if not then please contact us for further advice.
Exercise
Patients should be rested for 24 hours after an anaesthetic but please follow your vet's specific instructions regarding activity levels and the timing of return to exercise, depending on the specific case of your pet, particularly if any procedures have been carried out during the anaesthetic.
In Case of An Emergency
If you have a concern that requires urgent attention, please contact us at the surgery. If it is out of normal surgery hours, listen carefully to the instructions, which will direct you to the veterinary surgeon on duty.
It is particularly important that you notify us immediately if your pet becomes very quiet, seems in pain, goes pale or unresponsive.