How to Anesthetize a Cat

Cats need to be anesthetized for a variety of procedures that wouldn't warrant sedation in humans. Dental cleanings, some X-rays, and surgical procedures must be performed while the cat is under anesthesia.

Difficulty:

Challenging

Instructions

1. Perform pre-anesthetic tests to be sure the cat's major organs aren't already stressed. General anesthesia can be hard on the liver and kidneys, and your vet must be sure these organs are working properly before you decide to put the cat under. Some important tests are a B.U.N., creatinine, ALT, AP, bilirubin and CBC.

2. Place an intravenous catheter and administer fluids before and during the procedure and through recovery. The IV catheter gives the vet easy access to a vein should anything go wrong, and the fluids help the animal clear the anesthetic out once it's done.

3. Administer the pre-anesthetic or gas the cat with a mask. Some vets prefer one method over the other, and some cats are too difficult to receive an IV injection (if you skipped Step 2). For frightened or feral cats, some vets use a modified fish tank connected to the gas.

4. Insert the endotracheal tube and connect it to the gas. The most commonly used general anesthetics are isofluorane, sevoflurane and halothane.

5. Monitor the cat's vitals throughout the procedure and into recovery. Watch heart rate, pulse, oxygen level and retinal reflexes. Make sure the patient is given enough anesthesia to remain unconscious and comfortable during the procedure, but no more than necessary.

Tips & Warnings

• For all planned (non-emergency) procedures requiring general anesthesia, withhold food for 12 hours and water for 4 hours before the operation.