Ketamine

Ketamine:  

Do you need to perform a short veterinary procedure on your horse in the field? Ketamine offers a safe and effective anesthetic solution for veterinarians.

Ketamine: A Versatile Anesthetic for Horses

Ketamine is a veterinarian-administered medication that produces a dose-dependent, rapid-acting anesthesia. This means it quickly induces a state of unconsciousness in your horse while providing several key benefits:

• Pain relief (analgesia): Ketamine effectively reduces pain during the procedure.
• Maintained reflexes: Unlike some anesthetics, Ketamine preserves essential reflexes like coughing, swallowing, and corneal reflexes, ensuring your horse's safety.
• Respiratory depression: While breathing slows slightly, Ketamine typically doesn't require additional respiratory support for short procedures.
• Rapid recovery: Horses typically recover quickly and smoothly from Ketamine anesthesia compared to other options.
• Pain management: Ketamine also offers additional pain-fighting properties, potentially reducing post-procedural discomfort.

Ideal for Short Field Procedures:

Ketamine is the preferred anesthetic for short veterinary procedures in horses due to its:

• Fast-acting properties: It quickly induces anesthesia, minimizing stress on your horse.
• Ease of administration: Ketamine is often administered intravenously (through a vein), allowing for a controlled and effective dose.
• Short duration of action: Ketamine's effects typically last less than 30 minutes, ideal for quick procedures.

Combined Anesthesia Options:

Ketamine can be used in various ways:

• Induction agent: It can initiate anesthesia before switching to inhalational anesthesia for longer procedures.
• Standalone anesthesia: For very short procedures, Ketamine alone may be sufficient.
• Pain management: Ketamine can be used alongside other medications for additional pain control.

Important Considerations:

• Veterinarian administration: Ketamine is a prescription medication administered by licensed veterinarians only.
• Dosage and monitoring: The veterinarian will determine the appropriate dosage based on your horse's individual needs and closely monitor them throughout the procedure.
• Recovery: Horses should not be fed until fully recovered due to the risk of choking.

Partner with Your Veterinarian for Safe Procedures

Ketamine is a valuable tool for veterinarians performing short procedures on horses. Schedule a consultation with your veterinarian to discuss Ketamine's suitability for your horse's specific needs and ensure a safe and effective procedure.

Please note: While Ketamine is widely used, individual product ratings may vary. Always trust your veterinarian's professional judgment for your horse's health.