How to treat an inflamed eye in a rat? - briefly
Apply a sterile ophthalmic antibiotic ointment (e.g., bacitracin) after gently rinsing the eye with saline, and give a veterinarian‑prescribed systemic anti‑inflammatory such as meloxicam. Monitor the animal daily for decreased redness, discharge, and restored ocular function, adjusting treatment if symptoms persist.
How to treat an inflamed eye in a rat? - in detail
Treating ocular inflammation in a laboratory rat requires accurate diagnosis, prompt therapeutic intervention, and continuous monitoring to prevent complications and preserve vision.
First, confirm the condition by inspecting the eye for redness, swelling, discharge, or corneal opacity. Use a magnifying lens and, if available, a slit‑lamp or ophthalmoscope to assess the conjunctiva, cornea, anterior chamber, and iris. Collect a small tear sample for cytology or bacterial culture when infection is suspected.
Second, initiate local therapy. Apply a sterile, isotonic ophthalmic solution (e.g., balanced salt solution) to flush debris and dilute irritants. Follow with a broad‑spectrum topical antibiotic (e.g., 0.5 % gentamicin or 0.3 % ciprofloxacin) administered every 4–6 hours. For severe inflammation, add a corticosteroid eye drop (e.g., 0.1 % dexamethasone) at a reduced frequency (every 8–12 hours) after the antibiotic course begins, to avoid masking infection.
Third, provide systemic support when the inflammation is extensive or secondary to systemic disease. Administer an anti‑inflammatory NSAID (e.g., meloxicam 1 mg/kg subcutaneously once daily) for 3–5 days. If bacterial involvement is confirmed, give an appropriate systemic antibiotic (e.g., enrofloxacin 10 mg/kg subcutaneously every 12 hours) for 5–7 days.
Fourth, maintain a clean environment. Replace bedding daily, ensure the cage is dry, and provide sterilized water. Use a humidified chamber if the rat shows signs of ocular dryness.
Fifth, monitor progress. Record ocular appearance, tear production (Schirmer test), and behavior (e.g., rubbing, blinking frequency) at least twice daily. Expect noticeable reduction in redness and discharge within 24–48 hours. If signs persist beyond 72 hours or worsen, re‑evaluate with culture and sensitivity testing, and consider adjusting antimicrobial coverage.
Finally, address pain and stress. Provide analgesia (e.g., buprenorphine 0.05 mg/kg subcutaneously every 12 hours) for the first 48 hours. Minimize handling time and use gentle restraint to reduce additional trauma.
If the condition does not respond to the outlined regimen, consult a veterinary ophthalmologist. Euthanasia may be justified when the eye is irreversibly damaged, causing chronic pain, or when the animal’s overall health deteriorates despite intensive care.