The internet is full of stories of the dangers of anesthesia for guinea pigs, and often other exotic pets as well. Some claim that most guinea pigs will die when anesthetized. While anesthetic death rates are somewhat higher for guinea pigs than for dogs and cats, a publication found that the overall anesthetic death rate for up to 72 hours after anesthesia was 3.8%, meaning that about 96/100 guinea pigs survived anesthesia.
Several factors are important to consider: anesthetic death rate is higher in guinea pigs that are seriously ill or with more than one underlying illness. Anesthetic death rates appear lower in practices where guinea pigs are seen regularly, and given important anesthetic support such as an IV catheter for fluids, and multiple medications for discomfort.
Sedation instead of full anesthesia is also a great option, and will likely also improve safety. Examples would be for minor wound treatments, or removal of small masses where a local anesthetic can be used along with sedation.
If your guinea pig needs anesthesia, be sure to ask the following questions to your medical team:
How comfortable are you with guinea pig anesthesia?
What are the anticipated risks?
Do you use fluid support and are you prepared to help the patient breath if there is a respiratory emergency?
Do you use local blocks (numbing agents) to help with discomfort?
Do you recommend bloodwork or other tests prior to anesthesia?
If an anesthetic procedure is necessary for improved health, comfort or for prevention of future disease, it’s good to know most guinea pigs will be just fine.