Inefficacy of oral ketamine for chemical restraint in turkeys.

Abstract

Ketamine hydrochloride was given orally at a dose of 200 mg/kg to six domestic turkeys (Meleagris gallapovo). There was no apparent anesthetic effect. The same birds received 500 mg/kg by the same route 1 wk later. All birds became ataxic within 10 min; although some sedation was apparent, they made coordinated escapes when challenged.