A non-surgical jugular catheterization technique for multiple blood sampling in cats

In order to perform pharmacokinetic studies involving multiple blood sampling, repeated at variable intervals of time, a simple and reliable non-surgical jugular catheterization technique was developed. Six cats were catheterized 48 times using an indwelling through-the-needle type catheter (22G and 20.3 cm) placed into the jugular vein through an over-the-needle type (20G and 32 mm). Catheters remained in place for 1-13 days (median 3 days) without loss of patency until removal. Each jugular was catheterized a range of 2-6 times, with a total indwelling time of 4-33 days. No clinical signs of phlebitis, thrombosis or sepsis were observed either during or after the studies. This technique allows an easy, non-painful, non-stressful blood withdrawal during extended sampling periods, with minimal damage of the veins.