How should a water dispenser for rats be installed? - briefly
Mount the dispenser at cage height, secure it with a sturdy bracket, and connect the tubing so the drinking spout sits just above the rats’ reach, ensuring a leak‑proof seal and easy refill access.
How should a water dispenser for rats be installed? - in detail
A water bottle for laboratory or pet rats must be secured to prevent spills, contamination, and escape. Begin by selecting a bottle made of clear, durable plastic with a stainless‑steel sipper tube that fits the cage dimensions. The bottle’s capacity should match the number of animals and the frequency of refill.
- Placement – Attach the bottle to the cage side where rats can easily reach the sipper but cannot gnaw through the mounting hardware. The ideal height is 2–3 cm above the cage floor to keep the drinking area within the rats’ natural posture.
- Mounting – Use a stainless‑steel or nylon screw and washer set. Drill a pilot hole through the cage wall, insert the washer, and tighten the screw until the bottle is snug but not under excessive strain that could crack the plastic.
- Sealing – Verify that the cap’s gasket sits flat against the bottle mouth. Push the sipper tube firmly into the opening until a click is felt, ensuring a leak‑proof seal.
- Testing – Fill the bottle with fresh water, invert it, and observe for drips. Check the sipper tip for proper flow by allowing a rat to nibble; water should rise without excessive splashing.
- Cleaning – Disassemble the bottle weekly. Soak all components in a dilute bleach solution (1 % concentration) for 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with distilled water. Inspect the sipper tube for blockages and replace if wear is evident.
- Maintenance schedule – Refill the bottle daily, monitor water level, and replace the bottle or sipper tube every 3–4 months to prevent biofilm buildup.
Secure installation, regular inspection, and systematic sanitation together ensure reliable hydration for the rodents while minimizing health risks.