Immobilization and Anesthesia of African lion (Panthera leo) 5 Cases

Case Description- Five lions (one female and 4 male) were presented for diagnostic andsurgical treatment (wound management, castration and radiography). Immobilization oranesthesia was necessary to complete the procedure.Treatment and Outcome - Immobilization was induced using intramuscular injection ofvarious drug combinations (xylazine, diazepam or midazolam in combination withketamine). Inhalation anesthesia (halothane) was used to maintain anesthesia in an adultlion suffering from upper lip laceration. Castration was performed under field anesthesia.Opioid analgesic (morphine) was used to provide postoperative analgesia in surgical cases.No adverse effects or complications were observed during anesthesia and recovery period.Clinical Relevance- Chemical immobilization has been accepted as a routine procedure fornon-domestic animals. Intramuscular agents are used for immobilization and anesthesia forshort procedures. Following immobilization, inhalation anesthetics are used to maintainanesthesia in most species with excellent results. As with domestic animals, monitoring andsupportive care should be provided during general anesthesia in wild animals.