What is a recommended practice for a horse recovering from anesthesia?

Providing oxygen support until extubated is a crucial recommended practice for a horse recovering from anesthesia. During this recovery period, the animal may experience a temporary inability to breathe adequately on its own due to residual anesthesia effects. Oxygen support helps to maintain adequate oxygenation during this vulnerable phase. It ensures that the horse receives sufficient oxygen until it is fully alert and able to breathe effectively, reducing the risk of complications such as hypoxia.

Allowing the horse to recover independently may not take into account the potential need for respiratory support during the initial stages of recovery, and reliance on the horse's natural abilities without assistance could lead to critical situations if the horse struggles to breathe adequately. Keeping the horse in a standing position without support also poses risks; while many horses will naturally prefer to stand, they may require assistance to maintain balance and avoid falling, especially if they are still affected by the anesthetics. Using only oral oxygen delivery, while a method for providing oxygen, may not be as effective as more direct forms of oxygen support, especially during the critical phase immediately following sedation when the horse may have compromised airway or decreased consciousness.