The items needed for subcutaneous fluid injection are as follows:
- Fluids (solution)
- Butterfly needle
- Syringe
- Alcohol swabs
The fluids most commonly used for subcutaneous fluid injections are Hartmann’s solution or saline solution. However, factors such as your cat’s electrolyte levels or health may necessitate the use of a different type of fluid. As such, you should consult your cat’s vet to determine the optimal solution and administration method for your cat. Additionally, the solution should be sterilized and formulated specifically for injections. Non-sterile solutions should be avoided at all costs.
As for the butterfly needle itself, a 23G (gauge) needle is the ideal size, allowing for quick yet safe injection. A syringe is required to extract the needed fluids from the solution packet, and the syringe itself should ideally have a 18G needle. Finally, alcohol swabs are necessary to prevent infections and sterilize both the exit port for the saline solution packet and your cat’s skin.
These items can be purchased at a veterinary hospital or a veterinary pharmacy. With the exception of the saline solution, all the other items can also be purchased online. However, with saline solutions, Greycoat Research strongly recommends consulting your cat’s vet and following their guidance when choosing and purchasing saline solutions.
If you have any other questions regarding subcutaneous fluid injections, please feel free to contact us at Greycoat Research anytime.
