Update on Newborn Resuscitation in Dogs and Cats

Resuscitation of newborn puppies and kittens aims to support animals as they transition from intra- to extrauterine life immediately after birth and includes warming and drying, positive pressure ventilation (PPV), oxygen supplementation, reversal drugs and less commonly CPR. PPV is the most important intervention because it facilitates lung aeration, which is essential for successful cardiopulmonary transition at birth. PPV should be initiated as early as possible in apneic or gasping newborns or in those with severe bradycardia. If there is no heartbeat or the HR is < 50/minute, chest compressions are started at a compression:ventilation ratio of 4:1.