Page 427 - Feline Cardiology

Generic Name Indications/Drug Dosage and Comments Available sizes
(Brand Name) Type Possible Routes
of Admin.

Kabikinase—see
Streptokinase
Ketamine Dissociative 1–4 mg/kg Sedative, often combined with acepromazine 100 mg/ml
(Ketaset [V], anesthetic IV or diazepam. Increases heart rate and may Inj
Vetalar [V]) trigger decompensation (e.g., congestive heart VM
failure) in cats with compensated
“asymptomatic” cardiomyopathy. This risk,
and prolonged duration of effect (up to
several hours) discourage higher dosages
(10 mg/kg). Alters echocardiographic
measurements significantly. Effective
immobilization beyond the degree obtained
with standard dosages of opiates; useful for
very fractious or uncooperative patients when
benefit of procedure outweighs risk of
sedation. Mild analgesic properties via NMDA
receptor antagonism. Higher dosages such as
IM dosage (33 mg/kg) not recommended in
cardiac patients.
Lactated Ringer’s Parenteral 50–90 ml/kg Shown to be safe at 70–90 ml/kg IV bolus in 100,250
Solution (LRS) replacement-type per 24h IV anesthetized healthy cats; however, a smaller 500, 1000
crystalloid fluid CRI + deficits circulating blood volume exists in cats ml
+ ongoing compared to dogs, and substantial interindi- IV
losses vidual variability, mean that ongoing HM
monitoring for iatrogenic congestive heart
failure is essential in any cat, especially if
underlying heart disease is suspected or
documented.
Lanoxin—see
Digoxin
Lasix—see
Furosemide
Levophed—see
Norepinephrine

Drug Formulary

452