Sedation can effect the images obtained especially measurements in echocardiography, but also surprising effects such as gall bladder wall oedema. Therefore the need for sedation has to be balanced with the needs of the pet. A stressed animal is an unhappy animal, which makes getting images harder (wriggling and panting) and lowers the image quality affecting the information I can glean from the examination. I ascribe to Fear Free handling concepts and believe sedation should be not be with-held when fear, anxiety and stress of our patients is present. Cats often need some level of sedation to even allow clipping.
Please use this leaflet to guide the use of sedation for heart scans. Particular drugs must not be used prior to a heart scan.
Sedation should be prescribed by the case vet – I haven’t met the pet before, discussed consent with the owner and neither do I know what drug protocols your practice is used to using. I am happy to suggest drugs to use.