From:
leese10ferts
Date: 2002-01-17 12:27:00 UTC
Subject: Re: fasting time before surgery
--- In Ferret-Health-list@y..., "ifixrex2000" <ifixrex2000@y...>
wrote:
> Our vet always has us with hold food and water starting at 10 p.m.
> for a morning surgery. I strongly suggest looking into this
further
> before disregarding doctor's orders. It is my understanding that
all
> animals (including humans) must fast before general anesthesia to
> prevent vomiting which could result in choking.
I agree, but keep in mind that ferrets' digestive tracks are much
faster than humans' and other animals. A ferret can eat and fully
digest his/her food and expell it within 3-4 hours. Typically, I
fast my ferrets for 4 hours - like Kat said.
You don't want to feed them a big meal prior to going in for
surgery. The anesthesia can make them nausious and you don't want to
risk them throwing up during surgery - or even immediately after.
Lisa