Which statement best describes the rationale for starting perioperative analgesia before or at the time of surgery?

• A. To minimize pain and stress and promote recovery.
• B. To maximize speed regardless of animal welfare.
• C. To reduce costs.
• D. To avoid monitoring.

Answer: (A)

Starting analgesia around the time of surgery aims to prevent the pain and stress caused by the surgical insult. Providing analgesics before incision helps blunt nociceptive input to the central nervous system, reducing central sensitization and wind-up. As a result, postoperative pain is typically milder, animals recover more quickly, and overall welfare is better. This approach also tends to lower the amount of analgesia needed after surgery and supports smoother physiological recovery. The other ideas—focusing on speed, cutting costs, or avoiding monitoring—do not reflect the humane, recovery‑focused rationale behind perioperative analgesia.