How to feed a rat with a syringe? - briefly
Prepare a sterile syringe with a nutritionally balanced liquid diet, then gently insert the tip at the side of the rat’s oral cavity and dispense small volumes slowly to prevent aspiration. Secure the animal firmly while feeding to maintain control and ensure the fluid is swallowed safely.
How to feed a rat with a syringe? - in detail
Feeding a rat with a syringe is required when the animal cannot obtain food independently due to illness, injury, or post‑surgical recovery. The procedure must be sterile, gentle, and accurately measured to prevent aspiration and ensure adequate nutrition.
Select a suitable syringe. A 5‑10 ml disposable syringe with a 22‑25 gauge, smooth‑plastic feeding tube is optimal. The tube length should allow the tip to reach the back of the oral cavity without forcing it into the throat. Verify that the syringe and tube are free of cracks and that the plunger moves smoothly.
Prepare the diet. Use a nutritionally balanced, semi‑liquid formula such as a commercial rodent recovery supplement or a homemade mixture of softened pellet mash, boiled chicken broth, and a pinch of vitamin supplement. Blend to a smooth consistency, filter through a fine mesh to eliminate clumps, and warm to approximately 37 °C (body temperature). Measure the required volume based on the rat’s body weight (approximately 10 ml kg⁻¹ per feeding).
Administer the feed.
- Restrain the rat gently but firmly, supporting the body with one hand while the other hand holds the head in a natural, slightly extended position.
- Insert the feeding tube along the roof of the mouth, advancing slowly until the tip rests near the back of the oral cavity. Avoid pushing toward the epipharynx.
- Depress the plunger steadily, delivering the measured volume over 30‑45 seconds. Observe the animal’s swallowing motions; pause briefly if resistance is felt.
- Withdraw the tube carefully, allowing any excess liquid to drain from the mouth.
Monitor the animal after each feeding. Keep the rat upright for a few minutes to reduce the risk of regurgitation. Check for signs of aspiration, such as coughing or labored breathing, and adjust the feeding angle if necessary. Clean the syringe and tube with warm, soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and sterilize in an autoclave or boiling water before reuse.
Common issues and corrective actions.
- Refusal to swallow – reduce the feed temperature, thin the mixture further, or administer smaller aliquots more frequently.
- Aspiration signs – lower the tube insertion angle, feed more slowly, or consider a nasogastric tube under veterinary guidance.
- Leakage from the mouth – ensure the tube tip is positioned correctly and that the feed viscosity is appropriate.
Regularly record the volume administered, the rat’s weight, and any observed complications. Adjust the feeding schedule according to weight gain and veterinary recommendations to promote recovery and maintain health.