Hematologic and serum chemical effects of a ketamine/xylazine combination when used for immobilizing springbok

A ketamine hydrochloride/xylazine combination was found effective for immobilizing springbok. Following intramuscular injection by hand, the onset of immobilization ranged from 3 to 10 minutes and duration of immobilization ranged from 1 hour to 2 hours 20 minutes. Hematologic and serum chemical values before and after immobilization were compared. Serum alanine transaminase and serum glucose values were significantly higher after immobilization, whereas serum potassium was significantly lower.