How can a rat be given an antibiotic in tablet form? - briefly
Crush the tablet into a fine powder, blend it with a small amount of palatable soft food or a liquid vehicle, and deliver the mixture orally using a syringe or gavage tube to ensure the rodent ingests the full dose. This method provides accurate dosing while minimizing stress and refusal.
How can a rat be given an antibiotic in tablet form? - in detail
Administering a tablet‑based antibiotic to a laboratory rat requires precise dosing, appropriate vehicle preparation, and safe delivery techniques.
First, determine the required dose. Calculate the animal’s weight in grams, convert to kilograms, and multiply by the prescribed milligrams per kilogram. For example, a 250 g rat receiving 10 mg kg⁻¹ needs 2.5 mg of active ingredient.
Second, prepare the medication. Most tablets are too large to swallow whole, so crush the tablet in a clean mortar to a fine powder. If the formulation is coated, remove the coating before grinding to avoid delayed absorption. Mix the powder with a small volume of sterile water, saline, or a palatable carrier such as a 0.5 % methylcellulose suspension. Ensure the final concentration allows accurate measurement with a calibrated pipette (e.g., 0.1 ml for a 2.5 mg dose).
Third, select a delivery method:
- Oral gavage – Use a flexible, appropriately sized feeding needle (20 G for adult rats). Restrain the rat gently, tilt the head back, and insert the needle along the palate to avoid tracheal entry. Administer the measured volume slowly to prevent aspiration.
- Food incorporation – Blend the medicated suspension into a small, pre‑weighed piece of chow or a treat. Verify that the rat consumes the entire portion within a few minutes; otherwise, the dose may be incomplete.
- Water delivery – Dissolve the required amount in a measured volume of drinking water and provide it in a calibrated bottle for a limited period (typically 12–24 h). Monitor fluid intake to confirm the full dose is ingested.
Fourth, observe the animal after administration. Check for signs of distress, regurgitation, or abnormal behavior. Record the exact time and volume given, and note any adverse reactions.
Finally, maintain documentation. Log the rat’s identification, weight, calculated dose, preparation steps, delivery method, and post‑administration observations. This record supports reproducibility and compliance with institutional animal care protocols.