Chemical immobilization, hematology, and blood chemistry in jaguars (Panthera onca) in Venezuelan zoos: A retrospective study, 1996-2009

Abstract

<p>Twenty-two jaguars (<em>Panthera onca</em>) (12 males and 10 females) kept in captivity between 1996 and 2009, between 3 and 17 years of age, and with a weight variation between 40 and 87 kg, were chemically immobilized with a combination of ketamine (100 mg/ml)-xylazine (100 mg/ml) at a constant dose of 4.0-2.0 mg/kg, respectively. Initial effect time varied from 9 to 55 min, and lateral or sternal recumbency time varied from 25 to 155 min. All the immobilized jaguars showed good muscle relaxation. Salivation and arching were observed in nine jaguars. Four animals presented with vomiting. Generally, anesthetic induction with the combination of ketamine-xylazine was quick and smooth; recovery time ranged from 2 to 35 min. The continuous monitoring of heart rate, respiratory rate, and body temperature did not indicate adverse physiological responses to this combination of drugs. All the jaguars seemed normal and returned to their activities after recovery</p>