Subcutaneous (Sub-Q) fluid administration refers to the procedure of injecting fluids into the subcutaneous tissue under a cat’s skin. The procedure is used to rehydrate cats and help manage conditions such as kidney and liver disease.
In some cases, it may be necessary to administer subcutaneous fluids at home. If your cat needs home fluid therapy, please ask your veterinarian to demonstrate the procedure and refer to this fact sheet for step-by-step instructions.
Setting up the Equipment
Your veterinarian will instruct you on how much fluid to administer and how frequently. They will also supply you with fluids and equipment to carry out the procedure at home. Equipment typically consists of a fluid bag, a fluid line, and a needle.
Choose a quiet, enclosed area of your home and prepare to set up the equipment. First, remove the protective packaging from the fluid bag and fluid line. Move the roller clamp in the fluid line so it locks into place. This will prevent fluid from flowing through the line while you set up.
Next, remove the cap from the fluid line without touching the sterile parts of the equipment. Remove the cap from the fluid bag and insert the spike at the end of the fluid line into the hole in the bag. Ensure the line is properly connected to prevent leaks.
Hang the fluid bag a few feet above your cat on a hook, handle, or coat hanger. Gently squeeze the drip chamber located above the fluid line until it fills about halfway.
Remove the cap from the other end of the fluid line and set aside, then loosen the roller clamp to allow fluid to run through the line. This will remove large air bubbles so the fluid can flow freely. Position the fluid line above a sink or bowl to prevent spills.
Close the clamp after a few seconds and remove the cover from a new needle. Attach the end of the needle to the fluid line, taking care not to touch any sterile parts of the equipment.
Administering Fluids
Position your cat comfortably before administering subcutaneous fluids. Some cat owners find it helpful to hold their cat in their lap. Gently pinch and pull up an area of loose skin around the shoulder blades or hip bones when you are ready to begin. Remove the cover from the sharp end of the needle and place it horizontally at the base of the skin, parallel with your cat’s back.
Ensure the hole at the tip of the needle is facing upwards, then move the needle forward until it enters the skin. When the needle is in place, release the skin and open the roller clamp on the fluid line.
You will notice a lump forming under your cat’s skin as fluid enters the subcutaneous tissue. This is normal, and fluids will gradually be absorbed by your cat’s body. If the lump becomes too tight, remove the needle and administer fluids in a different area. Use a new needle to maintain sterility if you need to do this.
Keep an eye on the fluid bag to ensure that the correct amount of fluid is administered. You may also need to reposition the needle if fluids are not flowing freely. To do this, gently move the needle around without removing it from the skin.
Close the roller clamp when the correct amount of fluid has been administered, then slowly remove the needle and replace its cap. You will then need to remove the used needle from the fluid line and replace it with a new needle.
Please do not dispose of used needles in your regular trash. Instead, ask your veterinarian for disposal advice. Finally, store the equipment in a safe place away from direct sunlight until it’s ready to be used again.
