How to give an antibiotic to a rat? - briefly
Administer the medication using a calibrated oral gavage needle or a small syringe to deliver the prescribed dose directly into the rat’s mouth, ensuring the animal is gently restrained and the dose is measured accurately. Follow aseptic technique and observe the rat for any adverse reactions after dosing.
How to give an antibiotic to a rat? - in detail
Administering an antibiotic to a laboratory rat requires precise dosage calculation, sterile preparation, and appropriate delivery method.
First, determine the required dose. Multiply the recommended milligrams per kilogram by the animal’s weight in kilograms. For example, a 250‑gram rat receiving 10 mg/kg needs 2.5 mg of active drug. Use a calibrated scale to weigh the rat and a reliable reference for the specific antibiotic’s potency.
Second, prepare the medication. Dissolve the calculated amount in a sterile carrier such as physiological saline or distilled water, achieving a concentration that allows delivery of the full dose in a volume not exceeding 0.2 ml per 100 g body weight. Filter the solution through a 0.22 µm membrane if the drug is not already sterile. Label the syringe with drug name, concentration, and preparation time.
Third, select the route of administration:
- Oral gavage – Load a calibrated feeding needle with the prepared volume. Restrain the rat gently, insert the needle along the palate, and dispense the solution. Verify that the needle reaches the esophagus, not the trachea.
- Subcutaneous injection – Pinch a loose area of dorsal skin, insert a 27‑gauge needle at a shallow angle, and inject the dose. Observe for leakage or swelling.
- Intraperitoneal injection – Identify the lower right quadrant of the abdomen, insert a 25‑gauge needle at a 30‑degree angle, and deliver the solution. Avoid puncturing internal organs.
- Drinking water – Dilute the antibiotic to the calculated concentration, confirm stability in water, and replace the animal’s supply. Monitor intake to ensure the target dose is achieved.
Finally, monitor the rat after treatment. Record body temperature, weight, and behavior daily. Watch for signs of distress, gastrointestinal upset, or injection site inflammation. Adjust the regimen if adverse effects appear, and consult veterinary guidelines for alternative antibiotics or dosing intervals.