Vetalar is contra-indicated in patients with pre-existent hepatic or renal pathology. Caution on the use of Vetalar is required when pulmonary disease is present or suspected.

With Vetalar anaesthesia, the eyes normally remain open with the pupils dilated. The eyes should be protected by covering with a damp gauze swab or by application of a bland ophthalmic ointment.

Care should be taken when using halothane/ketamine combinations since the half-life of ketamine is prolonged.

It is advisable that where general anaesthesia is induced, animals are previously starved for at least 12 hours.

A small proportion of animals have been reported to be unresponsive to ketamine as an anaesthetic agent at normal doses.

Respiratory depression may occur following administration of high doses of Vetalar. If, at any time, respiration seems excessively depressed and the animal becomes cyanotic resuscitative measures should be instituted promptly. Adequate pulmonary ventilation with either oxygen or room air is recommended as there is temporary cardiovascular stimulation. Cardiac stimulants should not be used.

Cats, after administration of Vetalar, should not be stimulated by sound or handling during the recovery period. They should be kept at normal room temperature.

In some dogs, especially excitable dogs, insufficient anaesthesia as indicated by poor muscle relaxation and occasional short seizure-like movements may occur. Quiet handling before and after induction will help to minimise this effect.

Due to the risk of occasional short seizure-like movements, this anaesthetic technique is not recommended for use in delicate surgical procedures. Atipamezole should not be used to speed up recovery in dogs.

Vetalar must not be used as the sole anaesthetic agent in horses.

Excitable horses are sometimes poor subjects for anaesthesia. It is a prime requisite that the horse should be quietly and carefully handled during the administration of the anaesthetic agents so as to ensure the minimum amount of upset during the induction period.

If the horse fails to become sedated following the injection of either xylazine, detomidine or romifidine, then Vetalar should not be injected and the anaesthetic procedure should be abandoned.

Vetalar should not be used in horses intended for slaughter for human consumption.

This is a potent drug–particular care should be taken to avoid accidental self administration.

Wash off splashes from skin and eyes immediately.

In the event of accidental self administration–seek urgent medical attention and show this label.

Advice to doctor: Do not leave patient unattended. Maintain airways and give symptomatic and supportive treatment.