Total parenteral nutrition in animals

Abstract

Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) is used to provide adequate nutrition by intravenous administration in cases where feeding via the gastrointestinal tract is impractical, inadequate, impossible or contraindicated. Study 1: The aim of this study is to investigate the use of TPN in veterinary clinics in Malta.There are nine veterinary clinics locally, employing a total of twelve veterinarians. The majority have both large and small animal patients, i.e. farm animals and pets. Questionnaires were sent to all clinicians. Four replied. 75% cater for intensive care and all routinely administer I.V. solutions to both large and small animals. TPN is considered in cases of gastritis, vomiting, gastro-enteritis, poisoning, dehydration, certain surgical cases, nephritis, infectious disease and prolonged anorexia. All practices use saline, dextrose, ringer lactate and plasma expanders. All practices use ready mixed TPN solutions and all routinely mix ingredients prior to use, according to the case involved.