What is the purpose of fasting food animals before surgery?

What is the purpose of fasting food animals before surgery?

• A. To prevent dehydration during the surgery
• B. To reduce the risk of aspiration pneumonia
• C. To ensure the animal has enough energy for recovery
• D. To promote better healing post-surgery

Answer: (B)

Fasting food animals before surgery is primarily aimed at reducing the risk of aspiration pneumonia. When an animal is under anesthesia, the protective reflexes that prevent food or liquid from entering the lungs may be diminished or lost. If the stomach contains food or liquid at the time of anesthesia, there is a significant risk that it could be aspirated into the lungs, leading to serious complications such as aspiration pneumonia. By fasting the animal beforehand, the stomach is allowed to empty, which minimizes this risk and protects the animal during and after the surgical procedure. This precaution is standard practice in veterinary medicine to ensure the safety of the anesthetic process.