Is Anaesthesia Safe for Pets? A Vet’s Perspective on Risks, Safety, and Care
Written by Alessandro Didiano (doctor in veterinary medicine, MRCVS)
Disclaimer: This article is personally written by me, a licensed veterinarian with more than a decade of clinical experience. It’s for general information only and not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult a vet for health concerns or emergencies.
"She is not eating and her face is swollen", told me the lady looking at her 9 year-old Boston Terrier. It didn't take much for me to diagnose a dental abscess.
The poor dog was in obvious pain, and the only way to resolve the problem was to remove the tooth. She immediately crossed her arms and told me she did not want her dog to undergo a general anaesthetic. "She is an old girl", she added. I explained to her that at 9 year-old she was not old, and we would perform a blood test and a heart check before the procedure. If these things were all normal, the anesthesia would be considered safe. She immediately asked me why we couldn't use a local anesthesia like dentists do.
I explained to her that unlike humans, dogs do not stay still for delicate procedures. Local anaesthetic alone cannot be used safely in pets, it must always be paired with general anaesthesia. Without it, we simply cannot perform oral surgery. Unfortunately, she felt I was not respecting her choice and became upset. In the end, she was one of the very few clients I had to advise to see another vet, because without anaesthesia, I could not help her dog. I don’t know what happened to that poor animal, but I do know that untreated dental abscesses can cause extreme pain and systemic illness.
This situation, although quite extreme, highlights quite well how many pet owners feel about putting their pets under general anesthetic.
Is Anaesthesia Safe for Pets?
No medical procedure is ever completely risk-free. However, modern veterinary anaesthesia is very safe in the vast majority of cases. Advances in drugs, monitoring equipment, and veterinary training mean that the risks today are far lower than they were even a decade ago.
Also, most healthy pets tolerate anaesthesia extremely well. Even pets with underlying conditions, such as heart, kidney or liver problems, can often undergo procedures safely, provided the right precautions are taken.
What Precautions Do Vets Take?
When we put a pet under anaesthesia, several important steps are taken to ensure their safety. First, we perform a pre-anaesthetic assessment, which usually includes a full physical examination, a review of your pet’s medical history, and often blood tests to check organ function. Based on this information, we create tailored drug protocols, choosing the safest anaesthetic drugs for your pet’s age, breed, and health status.
During the procedure, pets are supported with IV fluids and airway protection. An intravenous catheter allows us to give fluids to maintain hydration and blood pressure, while a breathing tube ensures oxygen and anaesthetic gases are delivered safely. Throughout the entire process, your pet is under continuous monitoring. A dedicated nurse or vet carefully tracks their heart rate, breathing, oxygen levels, blood pressure, and body temperature to make sure everything stays stable.
Finally, we always provide pain control. Anaesthesia is combined with appropriate pain relief and, when useful, local anaesthetics to make sure your pet is as comfortable as possible during and after the procedure.
What Pet Owners Should Know Before and After Anaesthesia
Before anaesthesia, most adult pets need to fast for several hours before their procedure, as food in the stomach can increase the risk of complications. However, the fasting period is shorter for puppies and kittens, because their smaller bodies and faster metabolisms make them more prone to low blood sugar. Vets will always give you specific guidance before the procedure depending on your pet’s age and health.
Always inform your vet of any medications or health concerns, since these details help us choose the safest approach for your pet. And never hesitate to ask questions, you are entitled to all the answers you need to make this decision.
After anaesthesia, expect your dog or cat to be a little sleepy or wobbly for a few hours as they recover. It’s important to keep them warm, quiet, and comfortable at home during this period.
Final Thoughts from a Vet
As a vet, I would never recommend an anaesthetic procedure lightly. I understand that owners worry—it is natural to be concerned. But it’s important to know that in most cases, the risks of leaving a condition untreated are far greater than the risks of anaesthesia itself.
If your pet needs a procedure under anaesthesia, trust that your veterinary team has one goal: to keep your animal comfortable and healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Anaesthesia
Is anaesthesia safe for older dogs and cats?
Yes, older pets can usually undergo anaesthesia safely. However, senior pets often need extra precautions such as bloodwork, heart checks, and tailored anaesthetic protocols. In many cases, treating the underlying health issue (such as dental disease or a growth) is far safer than leaving it untreated.
What are the risks of anaesthesia in pets?
While modern veterinary anaesthesia is very safe, risks can include low blood pressure, breathing changes, delayed recovery, or very rarely, severe reactions. The overall risk is low, especially when anaesthesia is performed by a qualified veterinary team using modern monitoring equipment.
How do vets make anaesthesia safe for pets?
Veterinarians assess your pet’s health before anaesthesia, choose the safest drugs for their age and condition, place IV lines, use oxygen and airway support, and monitor vital signs throughout the procedure. Pain relief is also always provided.
Can a dog or cat have surgery without anaesthesia?
No. Unlike humans, pets cannot understand instructions to “stay still.” Even with local anaesthetic, dogs and cats would not tolerate surgery without moving. General anaesthesia is essential to keep pets pain-free and safe during procedures.
How long does it take for a pet to recover from anaesthesia?
Most pets are awake and walking within a few hours, though they may be drowsy for the rest of the day. Full recovery usually occurs within 24 hours, though older pets may take a little longer.
What can I do to prepare my pet for anaesthesia?
Follow your vet’s fasting instructions, provide details of any medications or health concerns, and make sure your pet is up to date with their health checks. After the procedure, give them a warm, quiet place to recover.