Hyenidae

The spotted hyena was selected for research because of unique morphological and behavioral characteristics. Reports of hyena anatomy and physiology indicate similarities to cats as well as dogs in terms of retinal anatomy. Hyenas, however, are more cat-like in several ways including dentition as well as physiological responses to xylazine and ketamine. The jugular, cephalic, and saphenous veins are accessible for blood collection and cannulation. Hyenas must be muzzled upon immobilization, and when applicable, remained muzzled for duration of procedure when maintained on injected anesthetics. Acute and peracute pain has dramatic effects on dosage requirements and induction time. The brown hyena is a nocturnal, cautious, silent, and solitary forager. Hyenas are placed in a straw-bedded, enclosed cage for postsurgical recovery. Use of ketamine/medetomidine produces, safe, reliable, and predictable results of the brown hyena in field situations and may be a suitable combination for captive anesthetic approaches.