Exotics Flashcards
What stresses rabbits?
-unfamiliar noises
-predators
-lack of hiding places/unfamiliar environment
-traveling to practice
-handling
-separation from companion
How can we minimise stress in rabbits?
-separate ward
-admit through different ward
-quick admits
-owner bring normal food/bowls/bedding
-brig companion
-provide hides
What considerations for feeding rabbits in practice?
-should not be fasted
-should eat 1-2hrs post op
-assisted feeding important
How does physiology affect anaesthesia?
-CVS = adapted to short burst of activity, heart rate is a less reliable indicator of anaesthetic depth and presence of pain in rabbits
-body temp, small so lose body heat easily
-obligate nasal breathers, any upper airway obstruction can be very serious
-small tidal volume, must take care with IPPV
-gas filled GI tract can put pressure on lungs
What safety precautions must be taken with rabbits?
-gather full history
-should have pre op check
-pre op diagnostics
-have emergency drugs to hand
-pre oxygenate as they hold breath
-intubate if possible, beware of laryngospasm or technical difficulties
-minimise dead space as have low TV
What protocols should be followed during procedure?
-everything set up prior to
-position them with chest elevated to assist breathing
-avoid pressure on chest or abdomen.
-keep one hand on rabbit at all times
-pulse points include femoral and auricular artery
What reflexes can be monitored in rabbits?
-toe pinch response, however this can be retained in forelimb in deep planes
-can retaking palpebral reflex and jaw tone even when in deep planes
What challenges are faced with rabbits?
-depth difficult to monitor
-HR not as variable
-better to monitor RR
-dehydrate quickly so hydration status must be monitored
What recovery protocols are followed with rabbits?
-high risk period
-hypothermia, check temp regularly
-airway obstruction
-extubate when tongue moving and jaw tone returns
-must be able to stay in sternal and lift head
