Data on critical care of pediatric and neonatal veterinary patients are spa
rse. Physical examination differs from that of adult animals, and recognizi
ng abnormal physiologic values is crucial for accurate assessment. In addit
ion, laboratory and radiographic data and fluid and drug therapy can differ
substantially between neonates and adults. Variations in hemodynamic param
eters in neonatal and pediatric patients make assessing and monitoring illn
ess challenging. An awareness of their unique homeostasis aids in diagnosis
and successful treatment.