When your pet is in distress, the last thing you want to do is concern yourself with calculating your pet's oxygen levels and flow rate needs. In the heat of the moment, we want you to be prepared and well-versed in your pet's oxygen needs. This article will dive into exactly how your veterinarian, and thus Pawprint Oxygen, determines your pet's needs to provide you with the most suitable products and the correct flow rates for oxygen therapy.
How Do Veterinarians Determine the Oxygen Flow Rate for Dogs and Cats?
Veterinarians determine the oxygen flow rate for dogs and cats by measuring the animal's respiratory rate and oxygen saturation levels.
They may use a device called a pulse oximeter, which is a non-invasive tool that attaches to the animal's tongue, ear, or paw and measures the amount of oxygen in the blood. The veterinarian will then adjust the flow rate of the oxygen to maintain the animal's oxygen saturation within a safe range, typically between 94-98%.
Additionally, the veterinarian may also observe the animal's breathing patterns, heart rate, blood pressure, and overall level of distress to determine the appropriate flow rate. If these observations prove inconclusive, they may also need further details in the form of an MRI, CT scan, EKG, or ultrasound to better identify and treat your pet.
What Is a Good Oxygen Saturation Level for My Pet?
A good oxygen saturation level for a pet is typically considered to be between 94-98%. This means that 94-98% of the pet's red blood cells are carrying oxygen. Oxygen saturation levels lower than this may indicate that the pet is not getting enough oxygen, which could be a sign of respiratory distress or other health problems.
In these cases, the veterinarian will adjust the flow rate of the oxygen to bring the pet's oxygen saturation level back within the normal range. It's worth noting that this is a general guideline, and the ideal oxygen saturation level for a specific pet may vary depending on the individual animal's underlying health conditions, age, and other factors.
Pawprint Oxygen Rescue Kits
Our Portable Oxygen Kits are ready-made for pet parents to use at home or in transport to their veterinarian. Based on the kit you select, which is determined by your pet's weight, the components included will be sized specifically for the needs of your pet. This consists of a pre-set flow rate regulator, an appropriately sized pet oxygen mask, as well as the recommended amount of oxygen canisters. Depending on the expected use or level of preparedness a pet parent wants to have, you are able to order additional canisters with your kit for an extra supply of oxygen.
Everything you need to administer oxygen is in our kits, including the correct flow rate regulator for your pet's weight range!
How Can I Tell if My Pet Needs Oxygen?
When a pet becomes hypoxic, or has a low blood-oxygen level, this can indicate a serious medical emergency. Identifying the symptoms and treating your pet can be critical; but how do you know when your pet is low on oxygen in the first place?
Symptoms of Low Blood-Oxygen Levels:
Coughing or gagging
Difficulty breathing
Abnormally rapid breathing
Open-mouth breathing (especially in cats)
Exercise intolerance
Blue or pale gums
Fainting or collapsing
Oxygen Flow Rate Quick Guide
The chart below represents guidelines for oxygen dosage and flow rate. While we provide recommended dosages, we always defer to the presiding veterinarian should they recommend a flow rate that differs from our typical guidelines.
When utilizing the PureVent Pet Oxygen Mask, the standard dosage is 100mL/kg/min as shown in the center chart.
What Is an Oxygen Flow Rate Regulator?
An oxygen flow rate regulator is a device that controls the flow of oxygen from a pressurized oxygen source, such as a cylinder or concentrator, to the patient or equipment that requires it. It reduces the pressure of the oxygen coming from the cylinder to a lower, more manageable pressure that can be used safely and effectively. It also allows the user to adjust the flow rate of the oxygen to match the specific needs of the patient.
Oxygen regulators typically have a gauge that displays the pressure of the oxygen coming out of the cylinder, and a flow control knob that allows the user to adjust the flow rate. Some regulators also have a safety valve that will automatically shut off the flow of oxygen if the pressure becomes too high. There are different types of oxygen regulators that are used in different settings. For example, some flow rate regulators are designed for use in pet hospitals and clinics, while others are designed for use in home care settings.
Recovering From Low Oxygen
Following a respiratory distress episode, one of the most important factors is being prepared for next time. Understanding your pet's oxygen flow rate needs and having a plan in place is pivotal to overcoming future emergencies.
As your pet returns home and begins the road to recovery, it's crucial to provide them with a calm, quiet, and comfortable environment. Additional stress or anxiety caused by other pets or family members within the home can slow the recuperation process. If your veterinarian included medications as part of your pet's discharge, be sure to complete them as instructed in order to avoid a relapse.
By using the above chart to determine your pet's flow rate needs and keeping supplemental oxygen on hand for home or transport use, you can keep yourself prepared for future episodes.
