AnesthesiaDifficulty 3/5
When is extubation usually appropriate in a cat compared with a dog?
- AEarlier in cats than dogs, to reduce the risk of laryngospasm
- BAt the same point in both species, once the reflex has fully returned
- COnly after the patient is standing, regardless of the species involved
- DLater in cats than dogs, once a strong swallowing reflex has returned
Show answer and rationale
Correct: A. Cats are prone to laryngospasm, so extubation is performed earlier than in dogs — typically at the first sign of returning swallowing or ear-flick — while dogs are extubated once swallowing is established.
- D — Waiting for a strong reflex in a cat increases laryngospasm risk.
- B — The species differ specifically on this point.
- C — Waiting until standing is unnecessary and unsafe in cats.