How should CPR be modified for small dogs, cats, kittens, and puppies?

How should CPR be modified for small dogs, cats, kittens, and puppies?

• A. Use both feet
• B. Use both hands with firm pressure
• C. Do not compress
• D. Use single hand with very light pressure

Answer: (D)

Small animals have tiny, delicate chests, so chest compressions must be gentler and easier to modulate than in larger dogs. The best way to do this is with a single hand, applying very light pressure, placed over the widest part of the chest and compressed just enough to cause slight chest movement while allowing full recoil. This minimizes the risk of injury from over-compression while still promoting blood flow during CPR. Using both feet or both hands with firm pressure would be too forceful for these small patients, and not compressing at all would stop circulation.

Small animals have tiny, delicate chests, so chest compressions must be gentler and easier to modulate than in larger dogs. The best way to do this is with a single hand, applying very light pressure, placed over the widest part of the chest and compressed just enough to cause slight chest movement while allowing full recoil. This minimizes the risk of injury from over-compression while still promoting blood flow during CPR. Using both feet or both hands with firm pressure would be too forceful for these small patients, and not compressing at all would stop circulation.