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Anaesthesia and Pets: What every pet owner should know
When your pet needs a medical procedure, anaesthesia may be required to keep them safe and comfortable. Whether it’s a routine surgery, dental treatment, or diagnostic test, understanding how pet anaesthesia works can help ease your concerns.
Our guide will break down what you need to know about pet anaesthesia safety, the types used, and what to expect before, during, and after your pet’s procedure.
What is pet anaesthesia?
Anaesthesia is used to prevent pain and discomfort during medical procedures. It allows veterinarians to perform treatments safely while keeping pets still and stress-free.
The type of anaesthesia for dogs and other pets depends on the procedure:
- Local anaesthesia – Numbs a small area while your pet remains awake. Commonly used for minor procedures like wound stitching.
- General anaesthesia – Causes complete unconsciousness, allowing for pain-free surgeries and more complex treatments.
- Sedation – Relaxes pets without fully putting them under. Often used for imaging, minor dental work, or procedures that require limited movement.
Before any anaesthesia is administered, a vet will assess your pet’s health to determine the safest option.
Is anaesthesia safe for pets?
Pet anaesthesia safety has improved significantly with modern veterinary medicine. Risks are minimal when proper precautions are taken, and every pet is monitored closely throughout the procedure.
Several factors influence anaesthetic safety:
- Age and breed – Certain breeds and senior pets may require modified anaesthetic plans.
- Health condition – Pets with heart, kidney, or liver disease may need extra precautions.
- Procedure type – The length and complexity of the procedure affect how anaesthesia is managed.
To reduce risks, pre-anaesthetic blood tests are performed to assess organ function. During the procedure, a trained team continuously monitors heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure, adjusting anaesthesia as needed.
When performed by experienced professionals, anaesthesia for dogs and other pets is a safe and necessary part of veterinary care.
How to prepare your pet for anaesthesia
Before the procedure, a few simple steps can help ensure your pet’s safety:
- Fasting – Most pets should avoid food for 6–8 hours before anaesthesia to prevent complications. Water is usually allowed
- Medication disclosure – Inform your vet about any medications or supplements your pet takes.
- Pre-anaesthetic testing – Bloodwork helps assess organ function and detect any underlying conditions.
- Minimise stress – A calm environment and a relaxed goodbye can help ease your pet’s nerves before their procedure.
By following these steps, you can help make the anaesthesia process as smooth and safe as possible.
What to expect on the day of the procedure
On the day of your pet’s procedure, our team will ensure everything is in place for a smooth and safe experience.
Here’s what typically happens:
- Pre-anaesthetic exam – Your vet will perform a final check-up, reviewing test results and confirming that your pet is ready for anaesthesia.
- Pre-medication – A mild sedative is often given to help your pet relax before full anaesthesia is administered.
- Anaesthesia induction – An intravenous (IV) injection or gas is used to put your pet under anaesthesia. They will be closely monitored as they transition into unconsciousness.
- Constant monitoring – Throughout the procedure, a veterinary team will track heart rate, breathing, oxygen levels, and blood pressure to ensure your pet remains stable.
- Procedure completion – Once the treatment or surgery is finished, the anaesthesia will be gradually reduced, and your pet will be moved to recovery.
After the procedure, your pet may appear drowsy or disoriented for a few hours. Our team will provide aftercare instructions to support a smooth recovery.
Caring for your pet after anaesthesia
Your pet may take some time to fully recover from pet anaesthesia. While every pet reacts differently, most experience mild drowsiness for a few hours. Here’s how you can help them recover comfortably at home:
- Create a quiet space – Let your pet rest in a calm, familiar environment away from noise and activity.
- Monitor their behaviour – Grogginess, unsteadiness, or confusion is normal, but contact your vet if it persists beyond 24 hours.
- Limit food and water – Your pet may have a reduced appetite. Offer a small meal once they are fully awake, unless advised otherwise.
- Prevent excessive movement – Restrict running, jumping, or rough play, especially after surgery, to allow proper healing.
- Check the surgical site – If your pet had surgery, look for signs of swelling, redness, or discharge and follow any post-operative care instructions provided by your vet.
If you notice vomiting, prolonged lethargy, or difficulty breathing, reach out to Pawsitive Veterinary Clinic immediately. Most pets recover without issues, but keeping a close eye on them ensures a smooth healing process. Understanding pet anaesthesia safety and following post-care guidelines can make a significant difference in your pet’s recovery.
When to contact your vet
Most pets wake up from pet anaesthesia without complications, but some may take longer to regain their usual energy. While mild grogginess is expected, certain signs should not be ignored.
If your pet seems unusually weak, refuses to eat, or remains disoriented beyond a full day, it’s best to consult your vet.
Vomiting, diarrhoea, or laboured breathing could indicate a reaction that needs attention. For pets recovering from surgery, swelling or discharge around the incision site may signal an infection.
Every pet responds differently to anaesthesia, but if something doesn’t seem right, trust your instincts. At Pawsitive Veterinary Clinic, we’re here to answer any concerns and ensure a smooth recovery for your pet.