What is anesthesia in cats? - briefly
Anesthesia in cats is a medical procedure that induces temporary loss of sensation or consciousness, ensuring they remain pain-free and immobile during surgeries or invasive treatments.
What is anesthesia in cats? - in detail
Anesthesia in cats is a medically induced state of controlled unconsciousness, pain insensitivity, and muscle relaxation, essential for performing surgical procedures or diagnostic tests that would otherwise cause significant distress or pain. It is achieved through the administration of anesthetic drugs, which act on the central nervous system to suppress sensory perception and motor responses. Anesthesia in cats is typically divided into three stages: pre-anesthesia, induction, and maintenance. Pre-anesthesia involves a thorough physical examination, blood tests, and sometimes imaging to assess the cat’s health and identify any risks. During this phase, premedication drugs, such as sedatives or analgesics, may be administered to reduce anxiety and provide pain relief. Induction is the process of administering an anesthetic agent, often intravenously, to rapidly induce unconsciousness. Common induction agents include propofol or alfaxalone. Once the cat is unconscious, maintenance of anesthesia is achieved using inhaled anesthetics, such as isoflurane or sevoflurane, delivered through an endotracheal tube to ensure a stable and controlled level of unconsciousness. Throughout the procedure, the cat’s vital signs, including heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels, are continuously monitored by trained veterinary professionals to ensure safety. Post-anesthesia, the cat is carefully monitored during recovery to manage pain, prevent complications, and ensure a smooth return to consciousness. Anesthesia in cats requires precise dosing and careful management due to their unique physiology, including their small size, high metabolic rate, and potential sensitivity to certain drugs. Proper anesthesia ensures that cats undergo necessary procedures with minimal stress and risk, promoting their overall health and well-being.