The Ark Veterinary Practice
41 Connaught Road, Fleet
Hampshire.
GU51 3LR
: 01252 616185
Post Operative Care Sheet For Rabbits/Small
Mammals
Your pet has had a general anaesthetic or sedation today and may be drowsy when
you get home. This is normal after a general anaesthetic. Sassy should be back to
normal within 24-48 hours, but will need to be kept quiet and warm this evening. If
possible, please keep them indoors until they have recovered from the effects of the
anaesthetic agents. Water should be available at all times.
Please keep an eye on any wounds. If you notice any problems such as swelling,
discharge or redness please contact the surgery for further advice.
It is important that your pet does not interfere with any wounds or
dressings. Excessive licking can slow down wound healing and introduce infection.
If necessary contact the surgery for further advice. A special collar can be fitted but
your animal must be closely observed to ensure they are still eating with the collar
in place. Hair may have been clipped at one or more sites for the purpose of
injections or in preparation for the procedure.
If your pet has any wounds then please use newspaper, soft shredded paper or
blankets/towels as bedding to prevent hay or straw irritating the wound. For rabbits
and guinea pigs a small amount of hay should be available as food.
If medication has been dispensed it should be given as directed and started the
morning following surgery, unless otherwise stated.
Feeding
It is very important that your pet should start eating straight away. If not
then please contact us as soon as possible for advice.
Feed normal foods, excluding greens and fresh food frequently as directed by the
vet. Water should always be available and bedding should be clean and dry. Please
monitor for faeces production and contact the surgery if this is not occurring.
Aftercare
Please make an appointment for a re-examination(s) as directed at your
discharge appointment. If your animal has a wound the sutures placed are
dissolvable and will not need removing.
If you have any concerns or queries please do not hesitate to contact the
surgery