Return to the Small Mammal Home Page

Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation, or CPR, as it is called, is a version of artificial respiration that includes assisting the heart to BEAT. The purposes of CPR is to keep oxygen moving to the lungs and blood circulating throughout the body. The directions contained here for CPR apply primarily to rabbits, ferrets and pigs. Some of the smaller animals, like hamsters and gerbils, may be too fragile for this procedure. But, you may still want to consider it. While these instructions may be good in an emergency, it is wise to check with your VET to establish the procedure that is best for your CRITTER.

If your pet is NOT breathing use a finger, or other appropriate object (Q-tip), to clear mucus or other objects from the mouth. TILT the head back to strengthen the airway passage. Do this very carefully so as not to injure the animal.

Hold the mouth shut with one hand, and place your mouth over the pets nose and mouth making sure the seal is tight.

Blow into the nose while watching to see if the chest expands.

If the chest DOES NOT EXPAND start again by clearing the mouth. If the chest DOES EXPAND release your pet's mouth so it can exhale.

Repeat the breathing procedure once every five (5) seconds until your PET is breathing normally, or until your Vet or other Emergency technician is available to begin treatment.

PUT your PET on its right side.
PUT your finger tips on the ribcage.

Firmly press on the ribcage in quick, smooth movements. The strength of the compression depends on the size of your PET, and should last no longer than 1/2 second.

Repeat this procedure a total of 10 times.

Then, if your PET is not breathing, perform CPR as described above.

Alternate between the chest compression (10 in a row), and one breath into the pet's nose. Remember that animal size requires delicate, but firm, handling.