The effects of epidurally amitraz (0.4mg/kg), xylazine (0.05mg/kg) or 10% dimethyl sulfoxide (5.0ml) over heart rate (HR), systolic arterial pressure (SAP), respiratory rate (RR), ruminal motility (RM), rectal temperature (RT), head height (HH), and latency to heat-evoked reflexes (LSPR - skin of perineal region; LHWR - hoof withdrawal reflex) were evaluated in cows. HR and RM decreased in amitraz and xylazine groups. Only xylazine group showed statistical difference over RR, SAP and HH. LSPR and LHWR were prolonged in both alpha-2 agonist groups. Amitraz epidural administration does not induce severe systemic effects, and induces prolongation of the latency to heat-evoked reflexes in a minor degree than xylazine, at the used dosages, in cows.
alfa-2 agonist; amitraz; analgesia; cattle; epidural
