How to give medicine to a rat? - briefly
Administer the medication with a calibrated oral gavage needle or a fine‑gauge syringe, gently restraining the rat and delivering the dose directly to the mouth or subcutaneously as appropriate. Verify the dose according to the animal’s weight and monitor for any adverse reactions.
How to give medicine to a rat? - in detail
Administering medication to a laboratory rat requires preparation, restraint, and appropriate delivery technique to ensure accurate dosing and animal welfare.
First, calculate the dose based on the animal’s weight. Weigh the rat, then apply the species‑specific conversion factor (mg kg⁻¹) to determine the exact amount of drug. Prepare the solution in a sterile syringe, using a calibrated syringe that matches the required volume. Check for air bubbles and remove them before injection.
Second, choose the route of administration. Common routes include:
- Oral gavage: Use a flexible, ball‑tipped feeding needle sized for the rat’s body length. Insert the needle gently along the palate, avoiding the trachea, and deliver the measured volume in a smooth motion.
- Subcutaneous injection: Pinch a fold of loose skin on the dorsal flank, insert a fine‑gauge needle at a shallow angle, and inject the solution into the subcutaneous space.
- Intraperitoneal injection: Locate the lower right quadrant of the abdomen, insert the needle bevel‑up at a 30‑45° angle, and deliver the dose into the peritoneal cavity.
- Intramuscular injection: Identify the hind‑limb quadriceps muscle, insert the needle perpendicularly, and administer the drug into the muscle tissue.
Third, restrain the rat securely but humanely. Use a clean, transparent tube or a specialized rodent restrainer that limits movement without causing stress. Hold the animal’s tail to maintain orientation and prevent escape.
Fourth, perform the injection with steady pressure. Deliver the full volume before withdrawing the needle. Observe the injection site for signs of leakage or swelling.
Finally, monitor the rat after dosing. Record the time of administration, observe for adverse reactions, and note any changes in behavior or physiology. Return the animal to its home cage once recovery is evident, ensuring the environment remains quiet and comfortable.
Adhering to these steps guarantees precise drug delivery, minimizes injury, and complies with ethical standards for rodent research.