RECUMBENCY IN SMALL ANIMALS - PATHOPHYSIOLOGY AND MANAGEMENT

Numerous musculoskeletal, neurologic, metabolic, endocrine, and cardio vascular conditions can lead to recumbency in small animal patients. C omplications associated with prolonged recumbency include development of decubital ulcers; respiratory, urinary, and gastrointestinal dysfun ction; and self-trauma. Large- and giant-breed dogs are especially at risk for development of decubital ulcers. Frequent turning of recumben t patients and use of appropriate bedding can help prevent decubital u lcers. Depending on severity, treatment of decubital ulcers may be con servative (i.e., wound lavage and topical medication) or surgical (i.e ., wound debridement and reconstruction). Respiratory dysfunction can be managed by frequent turning of patients and oxygen supplementation. Urinary and gastrointestinal dysfunction can occur in neurologically intact dogs due to pain, interruption of normal dietary habits, decrea sed water and food intake, and lack of exercise.