Fluid Therapy in Small Ruminants – A Review

Body fluid constitutes averagely 60% of the body weight of ruminants and this must be maintained in order to ensure optimal bodily function. Several homoeostatic mechanisms go on within the body in order to keep these fluids and electrolytes relatively constant. When these mechanisms are overwhelmed, life-threatening imbalances can occur rapidly. The use of fluid therapy is viewed as a medical therapy just as important as other medications in the management of sick or debilitated livestock where anaesthesia and/or surgery is required. It therefore, becomes imperative to review its uses and effect in small ruminants. Fluid therapy in any patient should aim to; replace existing deficits, replace on-going water and electrolyte loss, meet maintenance requirements and serve as a vehicle for the infusion of certain intravenous medications. In order to ensure appropriate fluid therapy, the volume of fluid deficit, type of fluid required and the route of administration should be punctiliously considered.