Message Number: YG10201 | New FHL Archives Search
From: sukieferret
Date: 2002-01-17 16:23:00 UTC
Subject: Re: fasting time before surgery

This is just one of those areas in which there are differences of
opinion, that's all.

About the only time that I haven't run into a difference of opinion
on this being expressed is in those ferrets which have
insulinoma -- esp. pronounced insulinoma. In our ferrets in that
situation the vets start a dex drip and then fast the ferret there
instead.

I suspect that the reasons for fasting are the same as for
humans:
1. reflux form the stomach that may then be inhaled and
suffocate or infect the individual, and
2. the terrible abdominal cramps that even a small amount of
material in the intestines can cause post-surgically.

We take away food and water here about midnight and our vets
operate usually about 8 a.m.

Have to tell you that so far (19 and 1/2 years with ferrets last Dec.
, and with ferrets as old as 8 years being operated on, and with
some very complex sugeries) we haven't lost one in surgery or
post-op. so i might be a bit superstitious about what has worked
so far and too inflexible due to that success.


--- In Ferret-Health-list@y..., "fuzzymum" <fuzzymum@m...> wrote:
> --- In Ferret-Health-list@y..., "Steve and Becky McMall"
> <mcmall@i...> wrote:
> > I have a quick question. We have a little one going in for
> adrenal surgery soon. The
> > vet, who I have never used before, but was recommended by
someone
> that I trust, advised
> > withholding food for the entire night before the surgery.
> Becky
> ****************
> Becky, from what I understand there is no fasting time for
> ferrets..My guys have had several surgeries and not one of
them
> fasted. I know you will get more expert explanations as to why
but
> please do not withhold food...
>
> Jackie