Avian analgesia

Abstract

Avian patients are considered to have equivalent perception of pain to mammalian species, but identification of pain can be compromised by behavioural adaptations. This may result in pain management being under-utilised in clinical practice. Use of analgesics is further compromised by a lack of evidence as to safe, effective agents and documented dosing regimens. Analgesia should be used where possible if pain is potentially present in a patient, and available medications are discussed.