Hypothermia (a low core body temperature) occurs when the core body temperature drops by more than 1 degree from the normal range. Hypothermia during general anaesthesia occurs for several reasons.
What is a normal temperature range?
There are different normal ranges sited, but the normal core body temperature for healthy dogs, cats and rabbits can be classed as:
Dogs: 37.5-39.2 degrees Celsius
Cats: 37.8 – 39.5 degrees Celsius
Rabbits: 38.3 – 39.4 degrees Celsius
Neonates will have higher normal body temperature ranges
During general anaesthesia, we need to take steps to try to ensure the body temperature remains at or as close to this range as possible and prevent hypothermia from occurring.