How to anaesthetise reptiles

Reptiles are very different to the cats and dogs usually seen in practice, but with some consideration of the anatomy and physiology of the various species, these patients can be anaesthetised with minimal risk. This article will cover the basics of how to safely anaesthetise, monitor and recover the pet reptile species most commonly seen in veterinary practice.

One of the most important things to remember when it comes to reptiles is that they are ectothermic, meaning that they require an external heat source (i.e. the sun) to be able to perform normal metabolic bodily functions such as digestion. It is extremely important that these species remain within their preferred optimum temperature zone 24 hours a day (Table 1) to maintain health. Being maintained at the correct temperature will mean that they are able to metabolise drugs and fluids and this will ensure a much smoother and predictable anaesthesia. When housed in the hospital environment, reptiles should be maintained at their optimum temperature either by using supplementary heating within a vivarium set up or a modified kennel with a heat lamp (Figure 1). Both heat lamps and heat mats can be used to raise the background temperature of the environment, heat sources should be connected to a thermostat to prevent overheating and a thermometer should be used to monitor the temperature.