Comparison of Two Anesthetic Inhalant Agents (Isoflurane and Sevoflurane) on Induction and Recovery from Anesthesia, Physiological Effects, Hematocrit, and Biochemistry Profiles in Domestic Pigeons (Columba Livia Domestica)

Isoflurane and sevoflurane are among the newer inhalant anaesthetics that have shown fewer adverse effects than their older counterparts; as a result, they are used more frequently in avian practice. Determination of the differences between induction and recovery time of isoflurane and sevoflurane in pigeons (Columba Livia Domestica). In addition, the anaesthetic effects of each on their physiological parameters, hematocrit and plasma chemistry values were evaluated.  A total of 20 male pigeons were allocated to two groups of 10 undergoing anaesthesia by 5% isoflurane and 6% sevoflurane in oxygen in a crossover, randomised design. Three data sets were collected pre-anesthesia, at the end of anesthesia with the cessation of medications, and 24 hours post-anesthesia. Different physiological and biochemistry parameters were evaluated.  It was shorter in pigeons treated with isoflurane, and they experienced a longer RT than the other group. No significant difference was observed between isoflurane and sevoflurane regarding RT. HR decreased in both groups at the end of anesthesia, which was more significant in pigeons anesthetized with isoflurane. Although RR and T decreased at the end of anesthesia in both groups, they were lower within the group treated with sevoflurane. Both anesthetics decreased plasma biochemistry factors in most of the samples except creatinine phosphokinase and albumin, which almost returned to the initial state 24 h post-anesthesia.  Throughout, however isoflurane considers the most commonly inhaled anesthetic in avian practice, sevoflurane is recommended for anesthesia in pigeons.