Chemical restraint and vasectomy in two captive Indian leopards (Panthera pardus fusca): Clinical observations and preliminary outcomes

Abstract

This study documents the surgical and anaesthetic protocol for elective vasectomy in two adult male Indian leopards (Panthera pardus fusca) housed at Gadag Zoo, Gadag, Karnataka, as a means of population management. Chemical restraint was achieved using a combination of Xylazine (1 mg/kg body wt.) and Ketamine (3 mg/kg body wt.), administered via blow pipe. Anaesthetic depth was maintained using intermittent intravenous ketamine boluses, and both animals showed smooth recovery following reversal with Yohimbine. Detailed health assessment, morphometric, haematological, and biochemical evaluations were conducted. Vasectomy was performed via bilateral 0.5 cm skin incisions near the prepuce. The vas deferens was isolated using ringed clamps and incised through the tunica vaginalis. Occlusion was achieved by ligation (3-0 polypropylene) and cauterization followed by excision of the vas segment. No intraoperative or postoperative complications were observed. This technique demonstrates that vasectomy under Xylazine-Ketamine anaesthesia is a safe, effective, and minimally invasive contraceptive method in leopards. While short-term outcomes were favourable, further studies are required to assess long-term reproductive, behavioural, and social implications in captive leopard populations.