Veterinary Drug and Fluid Calculations exam questions: topics, study tips and free sample questions
Updated 20 October 2026
Veterinary Drug and Fluid Calculations on the BCSE covers dose and dilution maths: mg per kg doses, tablet and volume conversions, constant rate infusions, fluid rates and percentage solutions.
Topics to know in drug and fluid calculations
- Converting a mg per kg dose to millilitres or tablets
- Percentage solutions and dilutions
- Constant rate infusions and drip rates
- Fluid deficit, maintenance and replacement
- Energy and nutrient requirements
How to study drug and fluid calculations for the BCSE
- Write every unit in each step and cancel them as you go.
- Always sense-check the answer: is the volume plausible for the patient?
- Do a short set of calculations every day instead of a long set once a week.
- Read every explanation and add questions you miss to a list you clear to zero.
Free drug and fluid calculations sample questions
Try these practice questions. Open each one to see the answer and the explanation. They are for study only. These are not official exam questions.
Question 1. A toy poodle presents at your clinic with chronic constipation. The decision is made to treat at home with lactulose. If the dose is 5 cc BID, how many ounces are needed for a 30 day supply?
- 27 ozs
- 10 ozs
- 32 ozs
- 300 ozs
- SS ozs
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: B. To determine this answer, you need to know that BID means twice a day, and that there are 30 cubic centimeters[ccs] in an ounce[oz]. First, determine how many cc's are needed, then divide that amount by 30 to convert to ozs: To determine daily dose: S5cc x 2 = 10 cc a day. Then the total ccs needed: 10 ccs x 30 days = 300 ccs total. Then convert from ccs to ozs 300ccs 30/1 cc/oz = 10 oz. ccs x dosage = daily dose
Question 2. How much sterile water do you need to add to a 25 gram bottle of Miracle-micin in order to yield an 8% solution?
- 200 ml
- 124 ml
- 624 ml
- 312 mi
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: D. 312 ml An 8% solution contains 80 mg/ml and 25g=25,000 mg. If 25,000 mg/X=80mg/ml, then X=25,000/80=312.5 ml (312 ml is close enough)
Question 3. Hemoglobin concentration is roughly what percentage of red blood cell packed cell volume (PCV) in a normal animal?
- 50% of PCV
- 10% of PCV
- 33% of PCV
- 25% of PCV
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: C. Normal animal hemoglobin (Hb, g/dl) is about one third the PCV (33%). So, if a cat has a PCV of 30%, then the Hb will be roughly 10 g/dl. If a dog has a PCV of 45% then the Hb should be roughly 15 g/dl. Remember that hemoglobin is a protein in the red cells that helps to transport oxygen. 431 and Tighe & Brown, Mosby's Comprehensive Review for Vet Techs, 3rd ed. p. 46.
Frequently asked questions
How many drug and fluid calculations questions are on the BCSE?
The exam is built from domains with published question ranges. Check the NEB overview for the current table and prepare this subject alongside the others.
How should I study drug and fluid calculations for the BCSE?
Write every unit in each step and cancel them as you go. Always sense-check the answer: is the volume plausible for the patient? Do a short set of calculations every day instead of a long set once a week.
Where can I practise drug and fluid calculations questions?
VetQ has 26 drug and fluid calculations practice questions, including 1 with images, with explanations. You can try it free for 48 hours.
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