Subcutaneous Fluids For Cats

Instead of placing a slow drip of fluids into the cats vein as happens with intravenous iv fluids the fluid is injected just under the skin with a needle.

Subcutaneous fluids for cats. And in emergency situations fluids are sometimes administered into the abdominal cavity. Sub qs can be dangerous for cats with heart conditions and the fluids can temporarily collapse a lung if too much pressure is exerted on the pleural cavity. The fluids given to the cat will be injected using a needle into the cats body usually under the skin subcutaneously. This position makes it a bit harder for him to simply walk away from you.

Why has my veterinarian recommended at home subcutaneous fluid treatment. Subcutaneous fluids are given under the skin. Subcutaneous sq fluid administration is the term used to describe giving fluids into the space under the skin subcutaneous tissue from where it can be slowly absorbed into the blood and body. If your cat needs subcutaneous fluids you will need to learn how to set up the fluid bag insert a needle under your cats skin and let the fluid flow.

This means anything on the needle or skin around the injection site now has the chance to enter the body. Now you are ready to give subcutaneous fluids to your cat. The fluid may move down into the abdomen or legs. Fluid bag and solution set sterility is a must when giving subcutaneous fluids for cats.

Most commonly home fluid therapy is recommended for cats with kidney disease or chronic renal failure crf. Subcutaneous fluid administration recovery in cats immediately following sub q administration of fluids your cat will have a lump where the fluid was inserted. This is a very useful way of providing additional fluids to cats and helping to manage and prevent dehydration. Administering supplemental fluids can benefit cats with a variety of medical conditions.

Although owners can easily administer subcutaneous fluids to their pets they should learn how from a trained veterinarian. Without subcutaneous fluids a sick cat could become very dehydrated making it feel even worse. Fluids can be given in a number of ways. In a hospital setting intravenous fluids through an intravenous catheter is the most common method.

Cats need subcutaneous fluids when they are too sick to drink on their own such as when they have serious kidney disease liver disease or cancer. Subcutaneous means under the skin. This is normal and the fluid will absorb into the tissues. It is easiest if he is resting upright on his sternum allowing you access to his back and shoulders.