Intubation and Tube Feeding

Veterinary nurses and technicians are at the forefront of anaesthetic care in avian and exotic species, often responsible for induction, intubation, and monitoring throughout procedures. As the ownership of birds, reptiles, and small mammals continues to rise, so does the expectation for high-quality veterinary care – not just from specialists, but from general practitioners and their support teams.

This session explores the crucial role of intubation in exotic and avian anaesthesia, especially during procedures requiring prolonged respiratory support. Participants will gain insight into the challenges posed by species-specific anatomy, limitations in available equipment, and how to overcome these to achieve safe and effective airway management. Emphasis will be placed on when and why intubation should become the routine standard of care – and how to make it practical in a busy clinical setting.

Whether you’re new to exotic anaesthesia or looking to refine your technique, this lecture will provide the knowledge and confidence to improve patient outcomes and uphold best practices across species.