subcutaneous saline

We had kittens and a mother cat that came down with distemper and became dehydrated. The vet gave them saline subcutaneously and it saved the life of the older cat. The little ones didn't make it, but it is a means of giving much needed fluid when a pet cannot or will not drink on their own or have other medical problems. I would ask your vet about this to see if it is necessary or possible for a non certified person to give the injections.

subcutaneous fluids are sometimes given to animals that are dehydrated (from kidney disease or other issues)- a needle is attached to a bag of fluids and the needle is inserted in to the subcutaneous area below the pets skin. The fluid builds up in pockets and is slowly absorbed. This is not something you want to try to do unless you are under guidance of a veterinarian. If you deal with alot of nursing care for pets, I am sure your veterinarian wouldn't mind showing you how to do this for approved home care support.

I know that sub-Q fluids are often given to pets in renal (kidney) failure. I've also heard of this given to pets who are dehydrated and those suffering from hypoglycemia. I would not recommend giving it without a veterinarian's recommendation. Perhaps a call to the vet would give you a better answer on a case-by-case basis depending what's wrong with each particular animal.