How Safe is Pet Anesthesia? With Forsyth Veterinary Hospital

During a visit at Forsyth Veterinary Hospital in Winston-Salem, NC, your pet will get a complete checkup. This includes checking its weight, vitals, teeth, skin, and fur. In some cases, the visit is a simple one, but in other cases, certain procedures will need to be performed. Some of these procedures will require pet anesthesia.

Different Reasons Why a Pet Might Need Anesthesia During Treatment

During a visit to the vet, there are a few circumstances where the vet will suggest using anesthesia.

• Surgery: If your pet needs surgery, your pet is going to require anesthesia. Most vets will use anesthesia even during minor surgery.
• Teeth Cleaning: Regular dental checks are vital to your pet's oral health and their overall health. If the vet finds plaque and tartar on your pet's teeth, a cleaning will be necessary. Most pets won't be still during a dental cleaning, and many get scared or angry. For the vet to perform a thorough cleaning, your vet may use anesthesia.
• X-Rays: It can be challenging for a vet to get a clear x-ray if your pet is awake. You cannot explain to a pet that they need to hold still the way that you can with a person. In many cases, the vet will use anesthesia before the x-rays to be sure that they get a clear picture.
• Aggressive or Scared Pets: If your pet tends to be aggressive with strangers or if your pet is scared, the vet may recommend anesthesia. In some cases, anesthesia is the only way that the vet can do a complete and thorough exam.

How Safe Is Anesthesia?

When a pet goes under anesthesia, they will be monitored constantly which will keep them safe while they are under. If your pet is old, the vet will perform a variety of tests before putting your pet under to be sure that they are strong enough for the procedure. According to a recent study, the anesthesia used today is safe, and 99.85 percent of pets survive anesthesia and sedation.

The Importance of Anesthesia

Pet anesthesia is very important if your pet requires surgery. It is also critical for certain pets to get a thorough exam, and for pets with behavioral issues, the vet may not be able to give a proper exam without anesthesia.

How Is Anesthesia Administered?

Pet anesthesia is often administered via IV for drugs that are designed to depress nerve function. There is also a muscle relaxer in the IV which will cause a complete loss of pain sensation. While under anesthesia, your pet will be given oxygen, and they will be monitored continuously.

Contact us Today for More Questions

If you have any questions about pet anesthesia before your pet's procedure, call Forsyth Veterinary Hospital at 336-765-1225.