How do you force‑feed a rat? - briefly
Use a soft, blunt‑tipped feeding tube or a syringe with a fine gauge, gently restrain the rat, and slowly dispense a measured amount of liquid diet directly into its mouth. Ensure the volume does not exceed 1 ml per 100 g body weight and monitor for regurgitation or distress.
How do you force‑feed a rat? - in detail
Administering oral nutrition to a rat requires a sterile feeding tube, a syringe, and a restraining device. The procedure should be performed by trained personnel in a clean environment to prevent injury and contamination.
First, select a flexible, size‑appropriate gavage tube (typically 1.0–1.5 mm outer diameter for adult rats). Attach the tube to a 1‑ml or 3‑ml syringe filled with the prepared liquid diet or medication. Remove air bubbles by gently tapping the syringe and pushing the plunger until resistance is felt.
Second, restrain the animal. Place the rat on a padded surface, hold the tail with one hand, and support the body with the other hand, keeping the head slightly elevated. A soft restraining bag can be used for additional stability, provided the animal can breathe freely.
Third, insert the tube. Tilt the head upward, locate the soft palate, and gently advance the tube along the midline of the tongue, avoiding the teeth. The tube should pass the epiglottis without resistance; if resistance occurs, withdraw slightly and retry. Proper placement is confirmed when a small amount of liquid can be withdrawn with the syringe.
Fourth, deliver the contents. Depress the syringe plunger slowly, allowing the rat to swallow naturally. Observe for coughing, choking, or regurgitation. If any signs of distress appear, stop immediately, remove the tube, and assess the animal’s condition.
Fifth, withdraw the tube. Pull it out smoothly while maintaining the animal’s head elevated for a few seconds to permit the remaining liquid to settle in the esophagus. Release the rat and monitor for at least five minutes, checking respiration, activity level, and signs of aspiration.
Key considerations:
- Use sterile equipment for each feeding session.
- Limit the volume to no more than 10 ml kg⁻¹ body weight per day.
- Warm the liquid diet to 37 °C to mimic body temperature.
- Record the date, time, volume, and any adverse reactions.
- Provide post‑feeding hydration and a quiet recovery area.
If repeated feeding is required, consider alternative methods such as subcutaneous fluid administration or specialized diet formulations to reduce stress and risk.