How should swelling in a rat be treated? - briefly
Treat the edema with a suitable NSAID, for example «meloxicam», administered at the species‑specific dosage, and apply a cold compress to limit swelling. Observe the rat for infection signs and modify the regimen if needed.
How should swelling in a rat be treated? - in detail
Swelling in laboratory rats requires systematic evaluation and targeted intervention. Initial assessment should include visual inspection, palpation, and measurement of the affected area to determine size, temperature, and consistency. Record any accompanying signs such as erythema, heat, or pain‑related behavior.
Diagnostic steps may involve:
- Collection of a small fluid sample for cytology and culture to identify infectious agents.
- Radiographic or ultrasound imaging to detect underlying abscesses, foreign bodies, or tissue edema.
- Blood work (complete blood count, inflammatory markers) to assess systemic response.
Therapeutic measures are divided into pharmacologic and supportive categories.
Pharmacologic treatment:
- Anti‑inflammatory agents (e.g., meloxicam 1–2 mg/kg subcutaneously every 24 h) reduce prostaglandin‑mediated swelling.
- Analgesics (e.g., buprenorphine 0.05 mg/kg subcutaneously every 12 h) alleviate discomfort that may exacerbate inflammation.
- Antibiotics, selected based on culture results, are administered for bacterial infections (e.g., enrofloxacin 10 mg/kg intraperitoneally once daily).
- Steroids (e.g., dexamethasone 0.2 mg/kg intramuscularly) are reserved for severe, non‑infectious edema, with caution due to immunosuppressive effects.
Supportive care:
- Warm compresses applied for 10–15 minutes, three times daily, promote fluid drainage.
- Elevation of the affected limb, when feasible, decreases hydrostatic pressure.
- Adequate hydration (approximately 30 ml/kg/day) supports circulatory function and lymphatic return.
- Nutritional supplementation with omega‑3 fatty acids can modulate inflammatory pathways.
Monitoring protocol:
- Re‑measure swelling dimensions every 12 hours during the first 48 hours.
- Observe for changes in behavior, appetite, and weight.
- Repeat imaging or cytology if no improvement occurs within 24–48 hours.
If conservative measures fail, surgical drainage or excision may be indicated. Perform aseptic incision, evacuate purulent material, and close with absorbable sutures. Post‑operative care includes continued antibiotics and analgesia.
Documentation of all interventions, dosages, and outcomes ensures reproducibility and compliance with animal welfare regulations.