INTRAVENOUS ANESTHESIA IN POULTRY: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF DRUGS AND PROTOCOLS

Abstract

Anesthesia in poultry presents unique challenges due to its particular physiology. This study, a literature review, investigates intravenous anesthesia in poultry, addressing drugs, doses, efficacy and adverse effects, with the aim of optimizing anesthetic protocols and improving poultry welfare.  The research considered articles published between 1990 and 2024, indexed in databases such as PubMed, BSV Veterinária, Google Scholar, Science Direct, and Springer Open. The review identified propofol and alfaxalone as the most studied intravenous drugs in avian anaesthesia. The interspecific variability in doses and protocols reinforces the need for anesthetic individualization. The combination of drugs, aiming at balanced anesthesia, demonstrated potential to optimize analgesia and minimize adverse effects. Total intravenous anesthesia appears as a promising alternative, especially when inhalational anesthesia is contraindicated. However, the heterogeneity of studies and the scarcity of research with certain species and drugs limit the generalization of the results. The findings of this review contribute to veterinary practice, guiding the choice of drugs and anesthetic protocols that are more appropriate for different avian species.  Caution in the application of the results is recommended, consultation of multiple sources and individualization of anesthesia are crucial.