Scales, Feathers, and Fur: Navigating Euthanasia in Exotic Species

Euthanasia in exotic companion animals presents unique challenges. This session will explore practical, species-appropriate approaches to euthanasia in rabbits, rodents, birds, and reptiles, with emphasis on balancing humane patient care with compassionate client experience. Drawing from current recommendations, including the American Veterinary Medical Association guidelines, and real-world clinical scenarios, this presentation will highlight limitations of commonly used techniques such as inhalant induction and intracardiac injection, and introduce alternative strategies including injectable and transmucosal anesthetic protocols. Attendees will gain insight into how to adapt euthanasia techniques across taxa while improving patient welfare, minimizing stress, and enhancing client satisfaction during end-of-life care.