Fluid Therapy: Options and Rational Selection.

Abstract

Balanced isotonic crystalloids are the mainstay of fluid therapy in veterinary medicine. They are an appropriate option in many circumstances, including treatment of shock, dehydration, ongoing fluid losses, and provision of maintenance fluid requirements. However, a variety of other fluid types may be indicated in specific circumstances. These include 0.9% sodium chloride, hypertonic crystalloids, hypotonic crystalloids, synthetic colloids, albumin solutions, and plasma products. Knowledge of the indications and risks of these varied fluid therapy products allows for tailored selection of the most appropriate fluid for individual animals.