Comparison of romifidine and xylazine as premedicants before general anaesthesia in horses regarding the postsurgical recovery period

The recovery period of horses following general anaesthesia is commonly seen as the most critical phase. The objective of this study was to compare premedication using romifidine (0,06-0,1 mg/100 kg body weight) and xylazine (1-1,3 mg/kg body weight) regarding length and quality of the recovery period after ketamine/diazepam/halothane anaesthesia. 186 horses were included in the open controlled study. The length and quality of the recovery period, the number of attempts to stand, as well as the level of stability in the stance were recorded. The results of this study show highly significant or significant differences between the premedication using romifidine compared with the premedication using xylazine, both in terms of stability of stance and length of recovery period. Following premedication with romifidine, the horses showed a more stable stance and a shorter recovery period. Additionally, the romifidine group showed a tendency for fewer attempts to stand. Therefore, premedication using romifidine was shown to offer advantages during the recovery period compared to premedication using xylazine. The longer duration of action and reduced instance of temporary ataxia during romifidine sedation, coupled with a better analgesic effect by romifidine, are discussed as being responsible for these results.