Edentata (Xenartha)

Edentata are immobilized to facilitate diagnostic procedures and treatment of medical conditions in zoological institutions. Preparation for the capture of free-ranging giant armadillos is labor intensive. The location of an active giant armadillo burrow must be made before capture can be attempted. Most armadillos can be manually restrained by grabbing the animal by the sides. Gloves are often used to avoid claw or biting injuries. All edentates can be effectively immobilized with cyclohexamine (ketamine or tiletamine) drugs in combination with benzodiazepienes or alpha-2 agonists. Such combinations include ketamine-midazolam, tiletamine-zolazepam, ketamine-xylazine, or ketamine medetomidine. After immobilization, edentates are maintained in lateral recumbency. In a captive situation, anesthesia is maintained with inhalants, and the alpha agonist drugs can be antagonized. Severe cardiovascular abnormalities can occur when alpha-adrenergic agonist agents are used for immobilization. Alpha-adrenergic drugs can be antagonized with atipamezole, both as a treatment for negative cardiovascular effects and to hasten recoveries.