Immobilisation with intramuscular ketamine as part of the anaesthetic protocol in three companion horses

The objective of this case series is to describe the successful use of ketamine intramuscularly for immobilisation as part of the anaesthetic protocol in two out of three companion horses. All patients were presented in situations where case management was challenging and dangerous to personnel involved. One case presented behavioural issues and the second case presented with severe colitis. Both horses were anaesthetised to be safely euthanised on humane grounds. The third case required extrication during a transport incident and had to be anaesthetised to ensure the safety of the horse and personnel involved. This case series discusses the reasons to choose intramuscular chemical immobilisation, drug delivery methods, and drug combinations. Moreover, factors that should be taken into account when planning intramuscular chemical immobilisation in horses are presented.