EFFECT OF SEDATION ON TRANSIT TIME OF FELINE GASTROINTESTINAL CONTRAST STUDIES

The effect of commonly used sedatives on gastrointestinal motility and transit time in cats was evaluated using barium sulfate in gastrointestinal contrast studies. Control studies were performed in nonsedated animals, and the results were compared with those obtained from each of five sedation studies (ANOVA; p < 0.05). The ketamine/acepromazine transit time (18 minutes) was shortened significantly compared with the control group (42 minutes), and both ketamine/acepromazine and ketamine alone resulted in significant increase in the number of gastric contractions. The level of sedation was evaluated subjectively and compared with the transit times to determine a chemical restraint method for potential clinical use that would have the least effect on transit time and motility yet provide adequate sedation. When sedation is necessary and motility is not a primary concern, the ketamine/acepromazine combination if recommended. If a gastrointestinal motility problem is suspected, the ketamine/valium combination should be used.