The effect of immobilizing drugs on adrenal responsiveness to ACTH in Rusa deer

Resting cortisol values in a fully tame Rusa deer (Cervus rusa timorensis) and the influence of two anaesthetics, Rompun and Fentaz, on cortisol levels as well as the response to synthetic ACTH were investigated. The mean level of cortisol in a completely tame Rusa deer was found to be 2.22 ng/ml (SD 1.45 ng/ml n = 36; minimal level recorded was 0.96 ng/ml, maximal level recorded was 9.21 ng/ml). No circadian rhythm of cortisol in plasma was detected. Rompun (xylazine hydrochloride) and/or Fentaz (fentanyl citrate) alone or in combination can be used for immobilization of Rusa deer. Neither Rompun nor Fentaz alone or in combination influences the cortisol response to synthetic ACTH administration. Because of the narrow range for safe dosage for Fentaz the use of Rompun for immobilizing deer is recommended.