Figure 3.

Local anaesthetic cream can be applied over the cephalic and jugular veins of the blood donor, after clipping the hair, for desensitisation of the skin before chemical restraint. A light occluding bandage (cellophane is used here) protects the area where the cream has been applied. Approximately 20-40 mins later an intravenous catheter is placed in the cephalic vein for drug administration (low doses of ketamine and diazepam or midazolam, for example). The cat can be placed in its transport carrier or a cosy cat kennel in a quiet room or ward during these 20-40 mins. The jugular vein site will be used for blood withdrawal