Evaluation of the antiemetic, sedative and analgesic effects of butorphanol and maropitant in combination with dexmedetomidine in cats undergoing ovariohysterectomy.

BACKGROUND

Dexmedetomidine commonly induces emesis in cats, increasing the risk of aspiration and discomfort. Butorphanol and maropitant have been suggested as antiemetic adjuncts, but their comparative efficacy is unclear.

METHODS

Twenty healthy female cats undergoing elective ovariohysterectomy were randomly assigned to receive intravenous dexmedetomidine (25 µg/kg) with either butorphanol (0.2 mg/kg; n = 10) or maropitant (1 mg/kg; n = 10). Incidences of emesis, retching, sialorrhea and lip licking were recorded for 30 minutes. Physiological parameters and sedation scores were assessed at set intervals. Anaesthesia was induced with propofol and maintained with isoflurane. Intubation quality, recovery and postoperative pain were evaluated for 180 minutes.

RESULTS

The incidence of emesis was very low (0/10 in butorphanol and 1/10 in maropitant; p > 0.05). Nausea-associated behaviours were similar between groups (p > 0.05). Both protocols caused transient decreases in heart rate and mean arterial pressure, while oxygen saturation and temperature remained stable. Sedation was deeper with butorphanol at early time points, with a mean difference in the sedation score of 2.3 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.9‒3.7; p < 0.05). Intubation and recovery were comparable between the groups (p > 0.05). Pain scores were significantly lower in the maropitant group at 120 minutes, with a mean pain score difference of 3.2 (95% CI: 0.7‒5.8; p < 0.05).

LIMITATIONS: The small sample size and restriction to healthy female cats may limit generalisability.

CONCLUSION

In this study, the incidence of dexmedetomidine-induced emesis was minimal in cats receiving either butorphanol or maropitant as adjuncts. Butorphanol was associated with deeper early sedation, whereas maropitant was linked to lower postoperative pain scores. These findings suggest that adjunct selection may be tailored according to individual perioperative priorities.