When can subcutaneous fluids be substituted for intravenous fluids and which fluids are useful for administration by the subcutaneous route?
The subcutaneous route can be used for maintenance needs in small dogs and cats, but it should not be used for patients with acute, severe fluid losses (i.e., patients with evidence of circulating volume compromise). Likewise, this route is not recommended for extremely dehydrated or hypothermic animals that may have considerable peripheral vasoconstriction, which potentially could interfere with absorption of the fluid. Only isotonic crystalloid fluids containing lactate as a base precursor (e.g., lactated Ringer’s solution) are recommended for subcutaneous administration. The low pH and high acetate content of some Plasmalyte products and Normosol R may contribute to pain on subcutaneous injection. Five percent dextrose in water typically is not recommended for subcutaneous use because temporary electrolyte imbalance potentially may occur as extracellular fluid equilibrates with the administered electrolyte-free fluid. Lastly, there is some concern that use of dextrose-containing cry
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