Guinea pig anaesthesia — how can risks be reduced?

Abstract

Veterinary nurses should be competent at helping to anaesthetise all patients presented in first opinion practice and this includes small mammals. Although guinea pigs are still commonly seen in the veterinary practice and as pets, there is much concern with regards to anesthetising them, even for routine procedures. With a few considerations however, the risk of placing these patients under general anaesthesia can be reduced somewhat. Understanding the species' basic needs and potential disease status will reduce stress to staff and risk to the patient.