Muskrat anesthesia for orhidectomy – case report

The common muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus) is a small semiaquatic rodent originating in the United States of America. This individual was found in the commune Snagov, Ilfov county, after a road trafic accident. It was brought to a wildlife center in Romania (Luana's Dream Foundation) where we evaluated and diagnosed it with traumatic physical injury and respiratory distress. After medical treatment and a rehabilitation period, he was castrated and returned in the nature in the area where he was found, in Snagov forest. This study focuses on the phases of anesthesia and analgesia. Premedication was achieved with alfaxalone 3 mg/kg (administered intramuscularly), followed by midazolam 0.1 mg/kg (administered intranasally) and butorphanol 2 mg/kg (administered subcutaneously). A locoregional block was performed as well, with lidocaine 6 mg/kg, administered intratesticularly. There was no need for supplementation, the duration of surgery being short, 15 minutes. Anesthesia maintenance was achieved with isoflurane (1.5-5%) and oxygen 100%.