How to give a rat doxycycline? - briefly
Give the medication orally, either by mixing the appropriate dose (≈5–10 mg kg⁻¹ per day) into the animal’s drinking water or by using a calibrated gavage needle to deliver a measured volume directly to the stomach. Monitor intake and health daily to confirm the correct dose is consumed and adjust the concentration as needed.
How to give a rat doxycycline? - in detail
Doxycycline administration to a laboratory rat requires precise dosing, proper preparation, and careful monitoring.
Calculate the dose based on the animal’s weight. The typical therapeutic range for rodents is 5–10 mg kg⁻¹ day⁻¹. Multiply the chosen dose by the rat’s weight in kilograms to obtain the required amount of drug per day.
Prepare the medication in a vehicle that ensures stability and palatability. Dissolve doxycycline powder in sterile water or a mild buffer (pH 6.5–7.0) to achieve the calculated concentration. Protect the solution from light and use it within 24 hours.
Select a delivery method:
- Oral gavage – Load the prepared solution into a calibrated gavage needle. Insert the needle gently into the esophagus, delivering the exact volume calculated for the dose. Perform the procedure once daily, observing the animal for signs of distress.
- Drinking water – Add the appropriate amount of doxycycline to the water bottle to provide the target daily intake, assuming average water consumption of 30 mL kg⁻¹ day⁻¹. Verify consumption by weighing the bottle before and after 24 hours; adjust concentration if intake deviates.
- Food admixture – Mix the drug into a measured portion of pelleted feed. Ensure uniform distribution by grinding the feed, blending with the solution, and re‑forming the pellets. Record the amount consumed to confirm dose delivery.
- Subcutaneous injection – Dissolve doxycycline in sterile saline to the required concentration. Inject the calculated volume into the dorsal flank using a 27‑gauge needle. Repeat at the prescribed interval.
Monitor the rat throughout treatment. Record weight, food and water intake, and any adverse reactions such as gastrointestinal irritation, lethargy, or changes in coat condition. Adjust the dose if body weight fluctuates significantly.
Dispose of unused solution and contaminated materials according to institutional biohazard protocols. Store remaining doxycycline powder at 2–8 °C, protected from moisture and light.
By adhering to accurate dosing, appropriate preparation, and systematic observation, doxycycline can be administered safely and effectively to a rat.