SUMMARY The use of inhalation anesthesia in bovine subjects has been considered to be an undesirable technique. It has been found that the bovine response to inhalation anesthesia is controllable and can produce desirable depth of anesthesia with minimum undesirable features. The methodology of inhalation anesthesia in the cow is discussed along with such physiologic responses as blood pressure, blood gases, pH, heart and respiratory rates, plus recovery patterns. The unique aspects of inhalation anesthesia in the cow are illustrated as well as complications and their control. The techniques used in both the calf and adult are discussed since the problem of rumen hypertension (bloat) are minimal in the young calf and may be critical in the adult. Equipment aids, such as the laryngoscope through ease of intubation, have been of value during induction and maintenance of inhalation anesthesia. Both intravenous and mask induction techniques have been used.