Perioperative Monitoring in Rabbits Under General Anaesthesia: A Narrative Review
Year: 2026
Type: review
Abstract: Intraoperative anaesthetic monitoring is essential in rabbits due to their high perioperative morbidity and mortality and the limited availability of species-specific evidence, despite their increasing role as companion animals. This narrative review summarises the available scientific literature on intraoperative monitoring in anaesthetised rabbits, focusing on central nervous system assessment, cardiovascular and respiratory monitoring, and temperature management during general anaesthesia. Findings indicate that anaesthetic depth assessment based solely on ocular reflexes is unreliable and should be integrated with jaw tone, reflex responses, and respiratory patterns. Cardiovascular monitoring relies on heart rate, electrocardiography, and arterial pressure measurement, although invasive and non-invasive techniques have limitations in accuracy and practicability in small-size patients. Pulse oximetry and capnography assess oxygenation and ventilation but may be affected by peripheral perfusion, equipment dead space, and technical limitations. Temperature monitoring is critical due to high risk of hypothermia, with continuous or frequent measurements recommended. Overall, multimodal monitoring improves detection of physiological disturbances and supports safer anaesthetic management.
Source: Pets
DOI: 10.3390/pets3030027
Author: Luca Bellini
Institution: University of Padua
Language: English
Subfield: Small Animals
Field: Veterinary
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,207
OpenAlex ID: W7167043939