Xylazine-midazolam-ketamine versus medetomidine-middazolam-ketamine anesthesia in captive Siberian tigers (Panthera tigris altaica)

Two alpha(2)-adrenoceptor agents, xylazine and medetomidine, in combination with midazolam and ketamine safely and effectively immobilized Siberian tigers (Panthera tigris altaica). The medetomidine protocol used smaller drug volumes, and induction and recovery times were shorter. Although cardiopulmonary abnormalities were noted, none were likely to be life threatening.