How should I give a rat medicine with a syringe? - briefly
Hold the rat gently yet firmly, supporting its back with one hand and using the thumb and forefinger to expose the cheek pouch; insert the syringe needle bevel‑up at a shallow angle into the side of the mouth and depress the plunger to deliver the prescribed dose. After dosing, wipe any excess fluid, monitor the animal briefly, and return it to its enclosure.
How should I give a rat medicine with a syringe? - in detail
Administering medication to a rat with a syringe requires careful preparation, precise technique, and post‑procedure monitoring.
First, gather a 1 ml or 0.5 ml insulin syringe with a 25‑27 G needle, the prescribed dose, and a clean work surface. Calculate the exact volume needed based on the drug concentration and the animal’s weight. Warm the syringe in your hand to reduce shock, and draw the solution, checking for air bubbles and expelling them before proceeding.
Next, restrain the rat securely but gently. One method is to hold the animal behind the neck with the thumb and forefinger while supporting the body with the other hand, keeping the head slightly elevated. Choose the appropriate route:
- Subcutaneous (under the skin): Pinch a loose area of dorsal skin between the thumb and forefinger, insert the needle at a shallow angle (10‑20°), and inject the full volume slowly. Release the skin after withdrawal.
- Intraperitoneal (into the abdomen): Locate the lower right quadrant, insert the needle at a 30‑45° angle toward the midline, ensuring the tip is within the peritoneal cavity before delivering the dose.
- Oral (gavage): Use a rounded‑tip feeding needle, position the rat’s mouth gently open, and aim toward the back of the throat to avoid the trachea. Administer the fluid in a single, steady stream.
During injection, pause briefly after needle placement to aspirate and confirm no blood is drawn, indicating correct positioning. Deliver the medication steadily; rapid administration can cause tissue damage or aspiration.
After the dose, observe the rat for at least 5–10 minutes. Look for signs of distress, abnormal breathing, or injection site swelling. Record the time, dose, route, and any observations in the animal’s health log. Dispose of the needle in a sharps container and clean the work area with an appropriate disinfectant.
Following these steps ensures accurate dosing, minimizes stress, and promotes the rat’s recovery.