Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
How low-dose ketamine-diazepam sedation changes cat blood test results
By Reynolds, Brice S et al.·Published in Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·2012·Dé, France·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Effects of intravenous, low-dose ketamine-diazepam sedation on the results of hematologic, plasma biochemical, and coagulation analyses in cats.
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
A group of 42 cats received a low-dose combination of ketamine and diazepam through an IV for short-term sedation during blood tests. The goal was to see how this sedation affected the results of blood tests, including checks on blood cells, biochemistry, and clotting. While some changes were noted in the test results after sedation, they were minor and not likely to impact treatment decisions. Overall, the sedation method was found to be safe and well-tolerated, making it a practical option for helping cats stay calm during blood draws.
People also search for: cat blood test sedation · low-dose ketamine for cats · effects of diazepam on cat blood tests
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of an IV, low-dose ketamine-diazepam combination used for short-duration chemical restraint on the results of clinicopathologic testing in cats and to assess its practicality and tolerance. DESIGN: Prospective case series. ANIMALS: 42 client-owned cats of various breeds, ages, and health status. PROCEDURES: Blood samples were obtained just prior to and just after IV injection of ketamine chlorhydrate (10 mg) and diazepam (0.5 mg). A CBC, plasma biochemistry panel, and coagulation profile were performed on each sample (ie, before and after chemical restraint). Practicality of the procedure was assessed, and cats were monitored for immediate and delayed effects. RESULTS: Significant changes were observed for most of the analytes tested. However, the magnitude of the observed changes was notably low and likely not of clinical relevance. The chemical-restraint procedure appeared effective, safe, and well tolerated. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The IV, low-dose ketamine-diazepam combination used for short-duration chemical restraint in the present study may be suitable to assist physical restraint for blood sampling for assessment of hematologic, serum biochemical, and coagulation parameters in cats.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22256843/