Basic principles of anaesthesia of small mammals: part 1

Abstract

Anaesthesia of small mammals (rabbits, ferrets and rodents) is associated with a higher risk compared with anaesthesia of dogs and cats. Clinical history and pre-anaesthetic assessment are often not as accurate as in cats and dogs, and underlying subclinical pathologies may be unrevealed. Additionally, anatomical and physiological characteristics typical of some of these species may contribute to anaesthesia-related mortality. Rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters and rats are prey animals, highly susceptible to stress: a quiet environment must be offered during the perioperative period and intramuscular premedication can help reducing stress related to intravenous cannulation and induction of general anaesthesia. Challenging endotracheal intubation and (in herbivores) the high risk of post-operative ileus are important considerations when anaesthetising these species. Finally, monitoring of temperature and of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems must be performed not only intraoperatively but also during the recovery period until the patient is fully awake.