Cardiopulmonary Effects of Alfaxalone-Xylazine versus Ketamine-Xylazine Anaesthesia in Local Chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus): A Pilot Study

Abstract

This study compared the effects of alfaxalone–xylazine and ketamine–xylazine combinations on anaesthesia in local chickens. Ten healthy chickens were randomly allocated into two groups: alfaxalone (5 mg/kg, n=4) or ketamine (5 mg/kg, n=6), both pre-mixed with xylazine (2.5 mg/kg) and administered intravenously via the wing vein. Induction time, duration of anaesthesia, and cardio-pulmonary parameters (respiration, heart rate, cloacal temperature) were monitored. Both protocols induced rapid anaesthesia with significant reductions in respiration and heart rates. Transient apnoea and cyanosis were observed only in the alfaxalone–xylazine group but resolved without mortality. Duration of anaesthesia did not differ significantly between groups (P>0.05). Both protocols appear suitable for inducing anaesthesia in local chickens; however, the small sample size and transient apnoea with alfaxalone-xylazine call for caution. Larger studies with stronger statistical methods are needed before firm clinical recommendations can be made.