In Practice 25: 264-271 (2003)
© 2003 British Veterinary Association

Use of indwelling intravenous catheters in the horse

¹ Moray Coast Veterinary Group, Inverness-shire

THE use of intravenous catheters facilitates the administration of fluids, blood and drugs to the equine patient. A variety of catheters are available for use in the horse, all of which have advantages and disadvantages. Sterility when placing an indwelling intravenous catheter, and proper maintenance of the catheter are of paramount importance in order to minimise the risk of thrombophlebitis. This article provides a step-by-step guide to the placement of three types of commonly used intravenous catheters, and discusses how to manage thrombophlebitis and other potential complications of intravenous catheterisation.

Note:

The authors would like to thank Mila International for the provision of the long-stay catheters pictured in this article.