Fluid Overload in Small Animal Patients.

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Small Animal Internal Medicine
• Critical Care

Background:

• Fluid therapy is a cornerstone of veterinary patient care.
• Fluid overload is a recognized complication in human medicine with potential for similar adverse effects in veterinary patients.
• Limited evidence exists regarding fluid overload in veterinary medicine.

Purpose of the Study:

• To define fluid overload in small animal veterinary patients.
• To describe methods for recognizing and treating fluid overload.
• To outline strategies for preventing fluid overload.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on fluid therapy and fluid overload in veterinary and human medicine.
• Synthesis of current knowledge to establish a definition and diagnostic criteria.
• Compilation of treatment and prevention strategies.

Main Results:

• Fluid overload is characterized by excessive accumulation of fluid.
• Recognition involves clinical signs and monitoring of fluid balance.
• Treatment and prevention strategies focus on careful fluid administration and monitoring.

Conclusions:

• Establishing a clear definition and diagnostic approach for fluid overload is crucial in veterinary practice.
• Proactive recognition, treatment, and prevention are essential to mitigate negative sequelae.
• Further research is needed to fully elucidate the impact and management of fluid overload in veterinary patients.