Medetomidine-ketamine anesthesia in red-eared slider turtles (Trachemys scripta elegans)

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Anesthesiology
• Herpetological Medicine
• Wildlife Pharmacology

Background:

• Medetomidine-ketamine is a common anesthetic combination in veterinary medicine.
• Limited data exists on its use and reversal in red-eared slider turtles (Trachemys scripta elegans).

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of two medetomidine-ketamine dosages in red-eared slider turtles.
• To assess the effectiveness of atipamezole for reversing medetomidine-ketamine-induced anesthesia in this species.

Main Methods:

• Thirty red-eared slider turtles were randomly assigned to a low (0.1 mg/kg medetomidine, 5 mg/kg ketamine) or high (0.2 mg/kg medetomidine, 10 mg/kg ketamine) intramuscular dosage group.
• Physiological parameters (heart rate, temperature, reflexes, relaxation) and response to procedures (injection, intubation, skin incision, suture) were assessed.
• Atipamezole (0.5 or 1 mg/kg i.m.) was administered 60 minutes post-anesthetic induction to reverse the effects.

Main Results:

• Both dosages provided adequate anesthesia for physical examination, minor procedures, and endotracheal intubation.
• The higher dosage was sufficient for more invasive procedures like skin incision and suturing.
• Physiological parameters remained stable, and atipamezole effectively reversed anesthesia, with all turtles swimming within 60 minutes post-administration.

Conclusions:

• Medetomidine-ketamine provides effective anesthesia in red-eared slider turtles for various procedures.
• Atipamezole is a reliable antagonist for medetomidine-ketamine anesthesia in this species.
• This combination offers a viable anesthetic option for red-eared slider turtle research and veterinary care.