The present study was designed to investigate the sedative anaesthetic activity of a combination of Xylazine (X), Fentanyl (F) and Ketamine (K) in local domestic pigeons. Twelve pigeons of either sex were used. The combination of (X) and (K) were administered as pre-medication to induce sedation. Fiften minutes, after (X+F) administration, (K) was injected. All drugs were injected into the pectoral muscles. The anaesthetic effect of these drugs was reversed by injection of Yohambine (Y) and Naloxone (N) combination subcutaneously. The sedative and anesthetic activity of the (X+F-K) combination and, alterations in heart rate (RR), Respiratory rate (RR) and cloacal temperature (CT) were investigated at 10 minute before (X+F) injection, 10 and 15 minute after (X+F) administration, 5, 15, 25, 35, 45 and 55 minutes, after (K) injection and at 1, 5, 15, 25, 35, 45 and 60 minutes after (Y+N) injection.
The HR, RR and CT of pigeon decreased within 10 minute after (X+F) injection and remained lower until its improvement after (Y-N) injection. The drugs combination used in this study produced a satisfactory general anaesthesia in ten of the twelve pigeons. The (Y-N) combination was an effective reverse that provide safe recovery from this anaesthetic protocol in pigeons.