Use of medetomidine for capture and restraint of cassowaries (Casuarius casuaris).

OBJECTIVE

To examine the use of medetomidine for the sedation of captive and wild cassowaries (Casuarius casuarius).

DESIGN

Clinical evaluation after administration of medetomidine by IM injection.

PROCEDURE: Nine captive and two wild birds were chemically restrained, with the drug being administered by dart to 10 birds and hand injected to one. Doses of 0.26 to 0.31 mg/kg IM provided light sedation sufficient to allow approach and limited handling. Doses of 0.38 to 0.54 mg/kg IM provided heavy sedation adequate for full clinical examination. Body weights were estimated in six birds and measured in five birds and ranged from 40 to 66 kg. Sternal recumbency occurred in six birds, three in each dose range. In nine birds sedation was reversed with atipamezole at a dose of 15 to 80 mg/kg IM, which produced a return to alertness in 40 to 139 min. Forceful sneezing occurred during recovery in three birds.

CONCLUSION

Medetomidine is a safe and reliable alternative to manual restraint in cassowaries.