Effect of physical restraint and xylazine sedation on haematological values in red deer (Cervus elaphus).

Blood samples were taken from healthy red deer (Cervus elaphus) using physical restraint or xylazine sedation. Red and white cell and platelet parameters were measured using a Technicon H6000/C analyser. Lower circulating red cell mass, lymphocyte and platelet counts were found in sedated deer. Mean red cell volume was significantly lower, probably due to the preferential sequestration of young red cells in the spleen. While the main cause of the observed differences is likely to be splenic contraction during physical restraint, the lower plasma viscosity and fibrinogen are suggestive of a haemodynamic component.