How a vet will give your pet fluids. Dr. Dan explains SQ fluids to IV fluids

Hi everyone, my name is Dan, and I am a veterinarian.


Today I am talking about fluid therapy in the dog or cat. A veterinarian will give fluids to a pet if they are dehydrated. There are a number of reasons why a cat or dog may be dehydrated. These underlying reasons will need to be addressed by your veterinarian.


The dehydration aspect of the disease or illness is usually addressed with either IV fluids or SQ fluids. SQ fluids are when a veterinarian puts fluids under a pet's skin. The fluid will collect in the SQ or fat space during SQ fluid delivery. The fluid that is given will then move throughout the dog or cat's body over the next few hours. This is usually done for patient's that are just mildly dehydrated or if we are worried that a cat or dog will become dehydrated.


IV or intervenous fluid therapy for a pet is more aggressive and needed when a patient is really sick. IV fluids provide quick fluid support. When a dog or cat gets IV fluids they have to stay in the veterinary hospital to make sure they do not damage their IV catheter as fluids are deliver.


Disclaimer: As always guys, if your pet is sick see your local veterinarian. This video, or any video on this channel, does not replace veterinary care. This video, and all videos on this channel, are for entertainment and education purposes.