Studies on evaluation of anaesthetic quality and clinico-physiological effects of xylazine and fentanyl as premedicants to zolazepam-tiletamine-isoflurane anaesthesia in canine

Abstract

To assess the clinical and physiological outcomes of xylazine and fentanyl premedication in dogs undergoing zolazepam-tiletamine-isoflurane anaesthesia, eighteen clinical cases were evaluated. Following baseline atropine administration, the subjects were randomly divided into three groups: Group I (zolazepam-tiletamine alone), Group II (xylazine) and Group III (fentanyl). Anaesthesia was intravenously induced using zolazepam-tiletamine and subsequently sustained with isoflurane, while vital parameters were assessed at set time points. Results indicated that the xylazine regimen delivered enhanced sedation, analgesia and muscle relaxation, concurrently extending the duration of anaesthesia. The fentanyl protocol, while providing moderate analgesic and sedative effects, demonstrated highly stable hemodynamics. Conclusively, both premedication combinations are safe, viable options for canine anaesthesia that effectively maintains vital parameters within acceptable physiological boundaries.