Post surgery questions

[Lithade72]

I know that rats can't regulate their body temp for 24 hours after surgery, and that they require a heating source that they can also get away from when they need to. I was wondering what has been used by some of you for this.

Also, after the surgery, will I need to keep my girl separate from the rest of the brood to keep them from messing with her stitches, or should I keep her in a smaller enclosure to restrain her movement? I'm sure the vet will have suggestions, but I would really prefer to know from people who have dealt with this situation from an owner standpoint, and probably more frequently/recently than my vet.

Thanks to all for helping me with my "first time surgery Mommy" worries. :nod:

 

[lj]

After my surgeries, well the rats, I have them go back in with their cagemates. I also have a cagemate go to the vet with them. I haven't used a "heating source" other than other rats. :giggle:

 

[SQ]

A hot water bottle wrapped in a fleece blanket on one side of the cage so that she can move closer or away from it works well.
Many of us use snuggies which are made for small animal and heated in the microwave but a hot water bottle is fine.

I keep my rats separate and near me after surgery usually until the next day if they are still feeling the effects of the gas.
Otherwise I put them back in with their cagemates.

Discuss pain meds with the vet.

 

[Lithade72]

Is it really okay to not restrict movement afterward? I am planning on getting my girl spayed at the same time as the tumor removal, and because their cage is so tall I am worried about her climbing and jumping, as she is an active girl.

Awesome heater ideas. :wink:

 

[ryelle]

My boy had a beanbag (one you heat in the microwave) in his cat box when i went to collect him, which the vets put in. You should ask though if they will provide anything like that or if you need to take anything - i had to take a blanket, water bottle and a little bit of his food so they could monitor him eating.

I agree totally with the take along a friend, it wil help reduce stress if they have somebody familiar with them

 

[Lithade72]

I also agree with bringing a friend along. I just haven't figured out who to bring with her, but I have an idea. :wink: