Planned anesthesia and monitored awakening for safe recovery
Anesthesia and sedatives always carry some risks for animals, influenced by factors such as species, breed, age, weight, and overall health. Anesthesia places significant stress on the body, and a surgical procedure adds further strain.
The awakening phase is the most critical part of anesthesia, so the animal must be closely monitored at the clinic before being sent home.
What happens during awakening?
Recovery from anesthesia begins when the administration of the anesthetic stops, initiating the awakening process. An animal is considered awake when it can make conscious contact and lie independently on its chest. The time it takes to awaken depends on factors like the type and amount of anesthetic used, the duration of anesthesia, body temperature, and any underlying health conditions. Full recovery can take one to two days.
During awakening, the animal's vital functions are gradually restored: breathing becomes deeper, reflexes and pain perception return, and the body's normal processes stabilize. If the animal's body temperature is low, it may begin to shiver, which increases oxygen consumption and can lead to oxygen deficiency. This, in turn, may affect heart rhythm, making monitoring and treatment during awakening critical to speeding up recovery.
Professional monitoring at the clinic
At the clinic, awakening usually takes place in a designated room equipped with heating pads, blankets, and oxygen masks to support the animal's vital functions. The veterinarian ensures the animal receives adequate fluids through an IV and infusion pump, while pain relief is provided to reduce stress and promote healing.
Effective pain management is essential not only to minimize discomfort but also to reduce stress hormones that can hinder recovery. Pain relief also stimulates appetite, which is vital since both anesthesia and surgery often reduce food intake. By providing palatable food and appropriate pain management, we facilitate a faster and smoother recovery.
Heading home and care instructions
Once the animal is sufficiently awake and stable at the clinic, it can go home to continue recovering under its owner's care. Before discharge, the veterinarian thoroughly reviews the procedure and provides clear home care instructions.
These instructions include guidance on medication, wound care, feeding, and activity during the recovery period. Depending on the type of procedure, home recovery can range from one day to up to two to three weeks.
If any questions arise after heading home, you wan always contact the vet for advice throughout the recovery period to ensure your pet receives the best possible care.
