How to apply drops in a rat's nose? - briefly
Secure the rat, gently tilt its head back, position a calibrated pipette at the nostril opening and dispense a single 5 µL drop, then keep the animal upright for about 30 seconds to allow absorption.
How to apply drops in a rat's nose? - in detail
Administering nasal drops to a laboratory rat requires preparation, restraint, and precise delivery to ensure consistent dosing and minimize distress.
First, select an appropriate droplet volume. Typical doses range from 5 µL to 10 µL per nostril, depending on the compound’s concentration and the animal’s weight. Use a calibrated micropipette with a low‑retention tip to achieve accurate measurement.
Second, prepare the animal. Place the rat in a clean, low‑profile restraining device that allows unrestricted access to the snout while limiting movement. Alternatively, hold the animal gently with one hand, supporting the torso and head, and use the other hand for the pipette. Apply a brief, light isoflurane anesthesia (1–2 % in oxygen) if the procedure demands prolonged handling; otherwise, perform the technique on a conscious, calm subject.
Third, position the rat’s head. Tilt the head slightly upward (approximately 30°) so that the nasal passages align with the gravity vector. This orientation facilitates droplet flow into the nasal cavity rather than immediate expulsion.
Fourth, deliver the drops. Hold the pipette tip just above the nostril opening, avoiding contact with the tissue. Release the measured volume slowly, allowing the liquid to enter the naris by capillary action. If two nostrils are to be treated, repeat the process on the opposite side with equal volume.
Fifth, confirm deposition. Observe the animal for a brief period (10–15 seconds) to ensure the fluid remains within the nasal cavity and does not drip onto the fur. If necessary, gently wipe excess fluid from the external nares with a sterile, lint‑free tissue.
Sixth, post‑procedure care. Return the rat to its home cage, monitor for normal respiration, and record the administered dose, time, and any observable reactions. Maintain a log of each administration to support reproducibility and compliance with institutional animal care guidelines.
Finally, maintain equipment hygiene. Clean the micropipette tip with sterile saline between animals, and disinfect the restraining apparatus according to the laboratory’s biosafety protocol.
Following these steps provides reliable and humane delivery of nasal solutions to rodents, supporting experimental consistency and animal welfare.