Ketamine Anesthesia in Swine

SUMMARY Ketamine was evaluated as an anesthetic and immobilizing agent in swine. In the dosage used, analgesia was adequate for surgical procedures of only a minor nature and of short duration. After intramuscular injection, rapid immobilization occurred. This facilitated injection of sodium thiopental or the administration of halothane, using a face mask, when more prolonged surgical anesthesia was indicated. Electroejaculation was accomplished easily in boars immobilized with ketamine alone. Excitement during the recovery period often was pronounced. It was more severe in older animals and those handled roughly during the induction and recovery period. Excitement was controlled easily with sodium thiopental injection.