Arterial blood pressure measurement and central venous pressure monitoring
are important tools in the management of the critically ill pet. Central ve
nous pressure is reflective of right atrial pressure and provides informati
on concerning volume status. Arterial blood pressure is helpful in determin
ing if perfusion to vital tissues is adequate. By providing more informatio
n with which to tailor fluid therapy and by prompt recognition of hypoor hy
pertension, these monitoring tools are instrumental in the management of th
e critically ill pet.