Evaluation of ketamine, ketamine-xylazine and ketamine-diazepam anesthesia in the ferret.

Ketamine, ketamine-xylazine, and ketamine-diazepam were evaluated clinically in 15 ferrets, and safe dosage was determined for each. All of the three regimens provided excellent immobilization. However, muscle rigidity and incomplete analgesia were noted in ketamine alone and in ketamine-diazepam respectively. It was concluded that 25 mg/kg ketamine and 2 mg/kg xylazine intramuscularly provided acceptable analgesia, muscle relaxation, duration and smooth recovery, although cardiac arrhythmias were a concern and require careful observation.