Evaluation of the anesthetic and cardiorespiratory effects of the ketamine, dexmedetomidine, and midazolam combination in wild and captive northern pampas cats (Leopardus garleppi)

Pereda-Sánchez A.; Hurtado C.M.; García-Olaechea A.; Ojeda-Juárez R. · Brazilian Journal of Veterinary Research and Animal Science (2025) · DOI: 10.11606/issn.1678-4456.bjvras.2025.231458

Resumen

Established chemical immobilization protocols are necessary for safe procedures in free-ranging and captive small felids. Detailed information on the anesthetic and cardiorespiratory effects of the northern pampas cat (Leopardus garleppi) is scarce. This study collected and evaluated the anesthetic and cardiorespiratory effects in seven procedures using ketamine (3.9 ± 1.3 mg/kg), dexmedetomidine (0.024 ± 0.002 mg/kg), and midazolam (0.16± 0.08 mg/kg) in northern pampas cats performed from 2018 to 2024, and partial reversion with atipamezole (0.02mg/kg). Anesthesia time periods were recorded from induction until recovery. Heart rate, respiratory rate, body temperature, oxygen saturation, and non-invasive pressures were recorded every 5 min for 25 min. The mean induction time was 5.4 ± 4.8 min, the mean of immobilization time was 48.6 ± 7.5 min, and the mean of recovery time was 20.8 ± 6.3 min. Just one individual had an erratic induction and needed a re-dosage. Non-significant differences were registered in all parameters. We found significant differences in heart rate, respiratory rate, body temperature, diastolic blood pressure, and mean blood pressure between free-ranging and captive individuals. The association of ketamine, dexmedetomidine, and midazolam was functional and safe for chemical restraint in wild and captive northern pampas cats. Nevertheless, some differences can be found in free-ranging individuals due to the stress of capture and the condition of the animals.