KRUUSE I Infusion Routes of Administration Oral fluid therapy is often sufficient for mildly compromised rabbits or guinea pigs, or as preventive treatment in elective patients undergoing anesthesia. But it is often case dependent, and it varies from practice to practice, which procedures is preferred. Subcutaneous administration is commonly used in rodents. It can be very challenging to place an IV catheter in these small animals, especially if they are dehydrated. Larger volumes should be split between 2 or more places, to avoid necrosis. Subcutaneous administration is not as effective as intravenous administration. But in some cases, it will be the preferred choice, at least until homeostasis is improved for a vein to be more accessible and placement of IV catheter is possible. Intravenous administration IV catheters are placed with growing frequency in small exotic mammals as rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets, and other rodents to administer fluid, medications, anesthesia, and analgesia. However, it is not without risk. But in cases where an IV catheter is ideal, it is very important to have the right tools, especially a good IV catheter of appropriate fitting size and quality. Veins for catheter placement Veins commonly selected for intravenous catheter placements include the Cephalic vein, the lateral Saphenous and Marginal ear, or Auricular vein in rabbits. Be sure not to use the auricular artery in rabbits! This might seem very tempting, as it is larger and easy to see and access. But the patient will not tolerate fluids or medications in the artery. Catheterisation with a 24- to 26-gauge (0.56-0.46 mm) indwelling IV catheter in the cephalic vein is routinely performed in rabbit patients. Alternatively, for short-term IV access, a 26-gauge (0.46 mm 19 mm) winged IV catheter can be placed in the caudal auricular vein. The catheter can be secured to the pinna by applying a small amount of tissue adhesive on the catheter wings and then pressing them against the skin. www.kruuse.com
Download PDF file