Fluid given under the skin,subcutaneously, is absorbed into the blood stream to correct or prevent dehydration. The easiest place to give subcutaneous fluids is the area on the back of the neck and between the shoulder blades because there is lots of loose skin in this "scruff" area. Once the fluids have been injected, you will most often be able to feel the pocket of fluid that feels a bit like a water bed. This fluid should be absorbed into the body over the next 6 to 8 hours.

This procedure is often done at our veterinary clinic to correct MILD dehydration in sick pets. Sometimes we will teach people how to give subcutaneous fluids at home, most commonly for cats suffering from chronic kidney disease or other chronic illnesses. If this is recommended by your veterinarian we will have you book an appointment with a technician to learn how to do this.

This very informative video demonstrates how to give subcutaneous fluids and provides some excellent tips.

http://vimeo.com/97610397