Low Body Temperature (Hypothermia)
Low body temperature (hypothermia)
Hypothermia is a drop in the body core temperature below the physiological range, e.g., due to cold, wetness, shock, or anesthesiaAnesthesia refers to the state of insensitivity to pain and can be partial (local anesthesia) or for the entire body (general anesthesia). It is used to keep patients pain-free during surgical procedures.. It leads to a slower heartbeat, weakness, shivering to unconsciousness. Severe hypothermia is life-threatening and must be treated immediately.
Hypothermia, colloquially also referred to as low body temperature, is a pathophysiological condition in which the body core temperature drops below the normal range. In dogs, the normal body temperature is between 37.5 °C and 39.0 °C, in cats between 38.0 °C and 39.5 °C. Hypothermia is said to occur when the body temperature falls below 37.5 °C in the dog and below 38.0 °C in the cat. The severity of hypothermia is divided into three grades: mild hypothermia (35–37 °C), moderate hypothermia (32–35 °C), and severe hypothermia (below 32 °C). At temperatures below 28 °C, there is an acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. danger to life.
Temperature regulation in mammals is carried out via the thermoregulatory center in the hypothalamusThe hypothalamus is an area of the brain that plays a central role in regulating Hunger, thirst, sleep, body temperature, and other autonomic functions. It controls the pituitary gland through the production of hormones.. This controls various physiological mechanisms for heat production and maintenance. Dogs and cats can regulate their body temperature through muscle shivering, vasoconstriction of peripheralPeripheral refers to areas located outside the central part of a system or body. In veterinary medicine, this can refer to peripheral nerves, blood vessels, or tissues that are distant from central organs such as the heart or brain. blood vessels, and metabolicMetabolic refers to metabolism, i.e. the entirety of chemical processes that take place in a living organism to enable life processes. Metabolic disorders can cause a variety of Diseases in Dogs and cats. adjustments. Compared to humans, however, they have a higher risk of hypothermia due to their lower body massIn pathology, the term “mass” is used to describe an abnormal lump or growth in the body. A mass can form in the skin or subcutaneous tissue, or even inside the body. The causes can be benign (not cancer) or malignant (cancer). and, in some breeds, due to a more unfavorable ratio of body surface area to body volume.
Causes
Low body temperature is when the body temperature drops below 36 degrees Celsius.
This can be caused by a cold ambient temperature, so that the body is no longer able to maintain its normal body temperature through its own heat generation. This can occur especially when staying in cold water (Fig.), in anesthetized animals, or in cases of severe dehydrationDehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. This can lead to a number of problems, including headaches, Dizziness, and in extreme cases, renal failure or Cardiovascular collapse..
Supplement
The causes of hypothermia in dogs and cats are varied and can be divided into environmental, medical, and iatrogenicIatrogenic refers to conditions or diseases that arise as a direct result of medical treatments or interventions. Examples of iatrogenic problems in dogs and cats can include medication side effects or post-operative complications. factors:
Environmental factors include prolonged exposureExposure refers to the Contact with or subjection to certain substances, environmental factors, or pathogens. In veterinary medicine, this can include Contact with toxins, allergens, or infectious agents that can cause health problems in dogs and cats. to low temperatures, primarily in conjunction with wetness or wind. Staying in cold water is particularly dangerous, as water dissipates body heat about 25 times faster than air. Breaking through ice can also lead to life-threatening hypothermia within a very short time.
Medical causes include severe systemic diseases such as shock, sepsisSepsis is a life-threatening condition caused by the body's overwhelming response to an infection, which can lead to damage to its own tissues and organ failure., severe metabolicMetabolic refers to metabolism, i.e. the entirety of chemical processes that take place in a living organism to enable life processes. Metabolic disorders can cause a variety of Diseases in Dogs and cats. disorders (e.g., hypoglycemiaHypoglycemia is a condition in which blood sugar levels fall below the normal range. Symptoms may include tremors, sweating, Hunger, confusion, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness., hypothyroidism), poisoning, or brain damage that affects the thermoregulatory center. DehydrationDehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. This can lead to a number of problems, including headaches, Dizziness, and in extreme cases, renal failure or Cardiovascular collapse. can also lead to a reduced ability to regulate heat.
IatrogenicIatrogenic refers to conditions or diseases that arise as a direct result of medical treatments or interventions. Examples of iatrogenic problems in dogs and cats can include medication side effects or post-operative complications. hypothermia often occurs during surgical procedures. The effect of anesthetics impairs thermoregulation. In addition, open body cavities, cold infusion solutions, and the use of disinfectants lead to increased heat loss.
Very young or old animals, animals with low body weight, short-haired breeds, and animals with pre-existing conditions, especially those affecting the metabolism or cardiovascular system, are particularly at risk.
Symptoms
Low body temperature (hypothermia) in dogs and cats
Typical Symptoms:
- Shivering, feeling cold, stiff gait, lethargy
- Pale mucous membranes, slow heartbeat possible
- Slowed reactions, weakness
Alarm signs:
- No more shivering (exhaustion), apathy to unconsciousness
- Decrease in heart rate, very slow pulse, cardiac arrhythmiaAn arrhythmia is a heart rhythm disorder in which the heart beats irregularly, either too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or with an irregular pattern. Arrhythmias can be harmless or a sign of serious heart problems., cold extremities
- RespiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. depressionDepression refers to a state of reduced mood and activity. In dogs and cats, it can be triggered by various factors, including illness, trauma, or changes in the environment., reduced, shallow breathing
- Drowsiness, cardiovascular collapse, unconsciousness
- Young animals: rapid decompensationDecompensation describes the state in which a previously stable system (e.g., heart, liver, kidneys) can no longer maintain its function, and symptoms of dysfunction occur. It is often a sign of advanced disease.
Escalation/course:
- Transition from shivering → “silent” hypothermia = significant deterioration
- Rewarming can make the circulation unstable (afterdrop risk)
- Hours: coagulationCoagulation is the process of blood coagulation, in which liquid blood is transformed into a solid clot. This process is crucial for stopping Bleeding and promoting wound healing. and metabolicMetabolic refers to metabolism, i.e. the entirety of chemical processes that take place in a living organism to enable life processes. Metabolic disorders can cause a variety of Diseases in Dogs and cats. disorders possible
The clinical signs of hypothermia develop progressively with decreasing body temperature and vary depending on the severity. In mild hypothermia (35–37 °C), the animals initially show muscle shivering as a compensation mechanism for heat production. The animals appear restless, seek out warm places, and huddle together to reduce body surface area. The peripheralPeripheral refers to areas located outside the central part of a system or body. In veterinary medicine, this can refer to peripheral nerves, blood vessels, or tissues that are distant from central organs such as the heart or brain. parts of the body, such as the ears, paws, and tail, feel cool.
In moderate hypothermia (32–35 °C), the shivering subsides as energy reserves are depleted. The animals become increasingly lethargic and show neurological symptoms such as coordination disorders and decreased reflexes. The heart rate decreases, the pulse becomes weaker, and breathing slows. The mucous membranes appear pale or bluish due to peripheralPeripheral refers to areas located outside the central part of a system or body. In veterinary medicine, this can refer to peripheral nerves, blood vessels, or tissues that are distant from central organs such as the heart or brain. vasoconstriction and reduced oxygen supply to the tissue.
Severe hypothermia (below 32 °C) leads to marked clouding of consciousness up to comaA coma is a deep state of unconsciousness where an individual cannot be awakened and does not respond to stimuli. In dogs and cats, it can be caused by severe illnesses, poisoning, or neurological problems.. The muscles become stiff, the pupils hardly react to light. The heart rate drops drastically, cardiac arrhythmiaAn arrhythmia is a heart rhythm disorder in which the heart beats irregularly, either too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or with an irregular pattern. Arrhythmias can be harmless or a sign of serious heart problems. occurs, and ventricular fibrillationFibrillation is an irregular, often rapid heart rate that leads to a chaotic rhythm in the atria or ventricles of the heart. This can impair cardiac output and often requires medical treatment. can occur. Breathing becomes shallow and irregular. At this stage, there is an acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. danger to life, and death occurs without immediate treatment.
It is particularly problematic that hypothermic animals can be in a seemingly lifeless state, although there are still signs of life. Therefore, the principle applies: “A hypothermic animal is only dead when it is warm and dead.”
First Aid
- Bring your pet to a warm room.
- If this is not possible, protect it from wind and further cooling by wrapping it in a blanket or the like.
- Dry the coat.
- Use a heating blanket to warm up.
- When using a hot water bottle or heating pad, make sure it is not too hot.
- Do not warm your animal up too quickly, e.g., with a radiant heater or a hot bath.
- Do not massage your animal.
- Offer warm water or broth to drink. But do not force-feed any drinks.
If your pet requires a prolonged operation under general anesthesia, a drop in body temperature may occur.
After surgery, leave your pet with the vet for monitoring until your pet is fully conscious. By then, the body temperature will also have normalized.
If hypothermia is due to fluid deficiencyDeficiency means a lack or absence of a necessary substance required for normal bodily functions or health, such as vitamins, minerals, or hormones. (dehydrationDehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. This can lead to a number of problems, including headaches, Dizziness, and in extreme cases, renal failure or Cardiovascular collapse.), an underlying disease requiring treatment, such as Vomiting or DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems., is present.
Take your pet to a vet.
Diagnosis
The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of hypothermia is primarily based on measuring the body temperature using a rectalRectal refers to anything involving the rectum, including administering medication or performing examinations via the anus. thermometer. It should be noted that commercially available thermometers often only measure up to 34 °C or 32 °C; special thermometers are required for lower temperatures. During the clinical examination, vital functionsVital functions are essential bodily functions necessary to sustain life. These include breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and level of consciousness. such as heart rate, respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. rate, capillary refill time (CRT)The capillary refill time (CRT) is a quick test to assess circulation. It measures the time it takes for color to return to an area (usually the nail bed) after pressure is applied to force the blood out. A normal refill time is usually less than 2 seconds., and mucous membrane color are also recorded.
Further investigations are useful to assess the severity and possible complications. A blood count can provide information on infections or inflammatory conditions that may have contributed to hypothermia. Blood gas analyses show disorders in the acid-base balanceThe acid-base balance refers to the equilibrium between acids and bases in the body, which is important for maintaining the physiological pH in the blood and other bodily fluids. Imbalances can lead to serious health problems. and in the oxygen supply. Electrolyte determinations are important because hypothermia can lead to electrolyte shifts. An ECG is used to detect cardiac arrhythmiaAn arrhythmia is a heart rhythm disorder in which the heart beats irregularly, either too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or with an irregular pattern. Arrhythmias can be harmless or a sign of serious heart problems., which often occurs in severe hypothermia.
In unconscious animals with an unclear cause of hypothermia, imaging procedures such as X-rayX-ray is an imaging technique that uses X-rays to create images of the inside of the body. It is often used to diagnose bone fractures, lung diseases, and other conditions., ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow., or CT may be necessary to rule out underlying diseases. The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. should always include the distinction between primaryPrimary refers to the first or original cause of a disease or condition, as opposed to secondary causes or symptoms that develop from it. (environmentally related) and secondary (disease-related) hypothermia, as this has implications for therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. and prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop..
Further veterinary measures
A venous access and securing breathing are the first measures.
Rewarming must be gradual, otherwise there is a risk of ventricular fibrillationFibrillation is an irregular, often rapid heart rate that leads to a chaotic rhythm in the atria or ventricles of the heart. This can impair cardiac output and often requires medical treatment.. Adequate fluid therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. with pre-warmed infusion solutions counteracts this.
The further procedure differs depending on the degree of hypothermia and the other initialInitial means beginning or at the start. In medicine, it can refer to the first symptoms of a disease or the first phase of a treatment process. situation.
In the case of very severe hypothermia (< 27 ºC), ventricular fibrillationFibrillation is an irregular, often rapid heart rate that leads to a chaotic rhythm in the atria or ventricles of the heart. This can impair cardiac output and often requires medical treatment. or cardiac arrest can occur, so that cardiac massage becomes necessary.
Defibrillation should only be performed when a body temperature of at least 30 ºC has been reached.
Supplements
The treatment of hypothermia depends on the severity and the accompanying circumstances. The basic principle is controlled, slow rewarming to avoid dangerous complications such as the afterdrop phenomenon (further drop in core temperature due to backflow of cold blood from the periphery) or reperfusion damage.
In mild hypothermia (35–37 °C), passive warming measures are often sufficient: the animal is brought into a warm room, wrapped in pre-warmed blankets, and protected from drafts. Wet fur should be dried carefully. Warm, sweetened liquids can be offered, provided the animal is conscious and able to swallow.
Moderate hypothermia (32–35 °C) additionally requires active external heat supply through heating mats, hot water bottles, or heating pads, which should be wrapped with towels to avoid direct contact. Warming should begin on the torso, not on the extremities, to minimize the backflow of cold blood to the heart. Intravenous fluid therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. with infusion solutions warmed to body temperature supports circulatory stabilization.
In severe hypothermia (below 32 °C), intensive care is essential. In addition to the measures mentioned, active core warming techniques are used, such as rinsing body cavities with warm liquids or extracorporeal warming procedures. Rewarming should be done at a rate of 0.5–2 °C per hour. Continuous monitoring of vital functionsVital functions are essential bodily functions necessary to sustain life. These include breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and level of consciousness. is necessary, as cardiac arrhythmiaAn arrhythmia is a heart rhythm disorder in which the heart beats irregularly, either too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or with an irregular pattern. Arrhythmias can be harmless or a sign of serious heart problems., electrolyte shifts, and circulatory instability can occur during the warming phase.
In addition, oxygen administration, glucoseGlucose is a simple sugar and the body's main source of energy. The concentration of glucose in the blood is regulated to meet the energy needs of the cells. infusions for hypoglycemiaHypoglycemia is a condition in which blood sugar levels fall below the normal range. Symptoms may include tremors, sweating, Hunger, confusion, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness., and in severe cases also drugs for circulatory stabilization may be necessary. In the event of cardiac arrest, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a life-saving procedure used in dogs and cats to restore heart and lung function when the heart has stopped beating. It includes chest compressions and artificial respiration. is performed, whereby it should be noted that defibrillation is only effective in severely hypothermic animals at a body temperature above 30 °C.
Prognosis and aftercare
The prognosis for hypothermia depends largely on the severity, the duration of hypothermia, and any accompanying diseases. In mild to moderate hypothermia without complications, the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. is good to very good with timely treatment. Animals usually recover completely without consequential damage.
In severe hypothermia (below 32 °C), the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. deteriorates significantly. Complications such as cardiac arrhythmiaAn arrhythmia is a heart rhythm disorder in which the heart beats irregularly, either too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or with an irregular pattern. Arrhythmias can be harmless or a sign of serious heart problems., coagulationCoagulation is the process of blood coagulation, in which liquid blood is transformed into a solid clot. This process is crucial for stopping Bleeding and promoting wound healing. disorders, renal failure, or brain damage can occur. Nevertheless, successful resuscitations have been documented even at very low body temperatures, especially in young, previously healthy animals.
Aftercare includes careful monitoring of vital functionsVital functions are essential bodily functions necessary to sustain life. These include breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and level of consciousness. and body temperature over 24–48 hours, as relapses can occur. Regular checks of kidney function, electrolyte balanceThe electrolyte balance refers to the balance of electrolytes in the body, which is essential for many physiological processes. Disturbances in the electrolyte balance can lead to serious health problems., and blood count are recommended to detect consequential damage early. In animals that have survived severe hypothermia, neurological examinations should be performed to assess possible brain damage.
Preventive measures to avoid renewed hypothermia must be discussed with the owners. These include adequate weather protectionProtection refers to safeguarding against diseases or harm. In veterinary medicine, this can include protecting animals through vaccinations, the use of parasite control products, or providing a safe environment., adaptation of activities in cold weather, and special precautions for at-risk patients such as old or sick animals.
Summary
Hypothermia in dogs and cats is a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by a drop in body temperature below the physiological normal range. It can be caused by environmental influences, underlying diseases, or iatrogenicIatrogenic refers to conditions or diseases that arise as a direct result of medical treatments or interventions. Examples of iatrogenic problems in dogs and cats can include medication side effects or post-operative complications. factors. Very young or old animals, small breeds, and animals with pre-existing conditions are particularly at risk.
The clinical symptoms develop progressively with decreasing body temperature and range from muscle shivering and restlessness in mild hypothermia to unconsciousness, severe cardiac arrhythmiaAn arrhythmia is a heart rhythm disorder in which the heart beats irregularly, either too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or with an irregular pattern. Arrhythmias can be harmless or a sign of serious heart problems., and respiratoryRespiratory refers to breathing or the process of breathing. Respiratory diseases affect the respiratory tract and can impair the ability to breathe effectively. arrest in severe hypothermia. The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is made primarily by measuring body temperature and clinical examination, supplemented by further diagnostics to assess complications and underlying diseases.
The therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. is based on the principle of controlled, slow rewarming, adapted to the severity of hypothermia. In severe hypothermia, intensive care with continuous monitoring of vital functionsVital functions are essential bodily functions necessary to sustain life. These include breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and level of consciousness. is essential. The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. is good for mild to moderate hypothermia but worsens with increasing severity and duration of hypothermia.
The occurrence of hypothermia can be prevented in many cases by preventive measures such as adequate weather protectionProtection refers to safeguarding against diseases or harm. In veterinary medicine, this can include protecting animals through vaccinations, the use of parasite control products, or providing a safe environment., adaptation of activities in cold weather, and special caution in at-risk patients.
Outlook on current research
Research in the field of hypothermia in small animals is currently focused on several promising areas. New findings on therapeutic hypothermia show that controlled, mild hypothermia after certain emergency situations such as cardiac arrest or traumatic brain injury can have neuroprotective effects. This technique, which is already established in humans, is now being adapted for veterinary use.
Innovative heating systems for the perioperativePerioperative refers to the time immediately before, during, and after a surgical procedure. In veterinary medicine, perioperative care encompasses all measures taken to ensure the safety and well-being of dogs and cats during this time. phase are being developed to minimize the frequently occurring iatrogenicIatrogenic refers to conditions or diseases that arise as a direct result of medical treatments or interventions. Examples of iatrogenic problems in dogs and cats can include medication side effects or post-operative complications. hypothermia during surgical procedures. These include improved heating pads with precise temperature control, warm air blowers, and special insulation materials that more effectively retain body heat.
In the field of intensive care medicine, new protocols for the treatment of severe hypothermia are being explored, including optimized rewarming strategies and pharmacological approaches to minimize reperfusion damage. The development of portable devices for extracorporeal warming could also find application in veterinary medicine in the future.
Molecular biological studies are investigating the cellularCellular refers to cells or consisting of cells. In biology and medicine, it refers to processes, structures, or functions that occur at the level of individual cells. mechanisms of cold adaptation and cold damage, which could lead to new therapeutic approaches. Biomarkers for the early detection of organ damage after hypothermia are being evaluated to improve prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. assessment and enable targeted therapies.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
- From what temperature do we speak of hypothermia in dogs and cats?
In dogs, hypothermia is present when the body temperature falls below 37.5 °C, and in cats below 38.0 °C. - Which animals are particularly at risk for hypothermia?
Very young and old animals, small breeds with an unfavorable surface-to-volume ratio, short-haired breeds, underweight animals, and animals with pre-existing conditions such as hypothyroidism or heart failure are particularly at risk. - How can I measure my animal’s body temperature correctly?
The measurement is carried out rectally with a digital thermometer, which should be left in the anusThe anus is the opening at the end of the digestive tract through which stool is eliminated from the body. In dogs and cats, the health of the anus can be an important indicator of various conditions such as parasite infestation and gland problems. for at least one minute. The thermometer should be pre-coated with Vaseline or a water-soluble lubricant. - Is shivering in the cold always a sign of hypothermia?
Not necessarily. Shivering is initially a normal compensation mechanism for heat production. However, if the shivering persists or is accompanied by other symptoms such as lethargy, this may indicate hypothermia. - Can I give my hypothermic animal alcohol to warm it up?
No, definitely not! Alcohol dilates the peripheralPeripheral refers to areas located outside the central part of a system or body. In veterinary medicine, this can refer to peripheral nerves, blood vessels, or tissues that are distant from central organs such as the heart or brain. blood vessels and can lead to further heat loss. In addition, alcohol is toxicToxic means "poisonous" and refers to substances that can have harmful effects on the body, including damage to organs, cells, or disruption of metabolic processes. to animals. - Why shouldn’t a hypothermic animal be warmed up too quickly?
Warming up too quickly can lead to the “afterdrop” phenomenon, in which cold blood flows back from the periphery to the heart and further lowers the core temperature. In addition, reperfusion damage and dangerous cardiac arrhythmiaAn arrhythmia is a heart rhythm disorder in which the heart beats irregularly, either too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or with an irregular pattern. Arrhythmias can be harmless or a sign of serious heart problems. can occur. - Can hypothermia cause long-term damage?
Yes, especially in severe hypothermia, organ damage to the kidneys, liver, brain, and other organs can occur. Neurological deficits can also remain as consequential damage. - How can I prevent hypothermia in my pet?
Through adequate weather protectionProtection refers to safeguarding against diseases or harm. In veterinary medicine, this can include protecting animals through vaccinations, the use of parasite control products, or providing a safe environment., adaptation of walks in cold weather, use of dog clothing in sensitive breeds, immediate drying after water contact, and special caution in at-risk patients. - Is hypothermia dangerous during anesthesia?
Yes, perioperativePerioperative refers to the time immediately before, during, and after a surgical procedure. In veterinary medicine, perioperative care encompasses all measures taken to ensure the safety and well-being of dogs and cats during this time. hypothermia can lead to prolonged recovery times, increased infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. risk, coagulationCoagulation is the process of blood coagulation, in which liquid blood is transformed into a solid clot. This process is crucial for stopping Bleeding and promoting wound healing. disorders, and Cardiac arrhythmiaAn arrhythmia is a heart rhythm disorder in which the heart beats irregularly, either too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or with an irregular pattern. Arrhythmias can be harmless or a sign of serious heart problems.. Therefore, modern veterinary medicine uses warming systems during operations. - When do I need to take my hypothermic animal to the vet?
A veterinarian should be consulted for any suspected hypothermia. This is urgently necessary for body temperatures below 35°C, in case of clouding of consciousness, breathing problems, or if the animal does not respond to simple warming measures.
Literature
- Tischer, A.: The effect of heat and moisture exchangers on intraoperative temperature development in dogs and cats. Inaugural Dissertation FU Berlin, Berlin 2010
- Löwe, G. and Löwe, O. (2021). Emergencies in dogs and cats – A veterinary Guide. Kynos-Verlag. 208 pp.
- Brodeur A, Wright A, Cortes Y. Hypothermia and targeted temperature management in cats and dogs. Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care. 2017;27(2):151-163.
- Oncken AK, Kirby R, Rudloff E. Hypothermia in critically ill dogs and cats. Compendium on Continuing Education for the Practicing Veterinarian. 2021;23(6):506-521.
- Silverstein DC, Hopper K. Small Animal Critical Care Medicine. 2nd ed. St. Louis, MO: Elsevier; 2022.
- Mazzaferro EM. Perioperative hypothermia in small animals. Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice. 2023;53(1):95-107.
- Plunkett SJ, McMichael M. Emergency procedures for the small animal veterinarian. 4th ed. London: Elsevier; 2023.