What can be applied to a rat's wound? - briefly
Apply a sterile antiseptic such as povidone‑iodine or chlorhexidine to the wound, then cover it with a non‑adhesive gauze pad secured with tape.
What can be applied to a rat's wound? - in detail
Treat the injury with a sterile saline rinse to remove debris and reduce bacterial load. Follow the rinse with a suitable topical antimicrobial. Diluted povidone‑iodine (1%–2%) or chlorhexidine solution (0.05%–0.1%) can be applied with a sterile swab; both are effective against a broad spectrum of pathogens and are safe for rodents when properly diluted.
After disinfection, a thin layer of a veterinary‑grade ointment may be placed over the wound. Options include:
- Bacitracin or neomycin ointment for gram‑positive coverage.
- Triple‑antibiotic ointment (bacitracin, neomycin, polymyxin B) for mixed flora.
- Silver‑sulfadiazine cream for burns or deep ulcerations.
Cover the treated area with a non‑adhesive, breathable dressing such as a sterile gauze pad secured with a light bandage. The dressing should be changed at least once daily or whenever it becomes soiled.
Systemic antibiotics are indicated for large, infected, or penetrating wounds. Common choices are:
- Enrofloxacin (10 mg/kg, subcutaneously, once daily).
- Trimethoprim‑sulfamethoxazole (30 mg/kg, orally, twice daily).
Dosage must be calculated precisely for the animal’s weight and administered under veterinary supervision.
Pain management improves healing. Buprenorphine (0.05 mg/kg, subcutaneously, every 8–12 hours) provides adequate analgesia without compromising respiratory function.
Environmental factors influence recovery. Maintain cage temperature at 22–25 °C, provide soft bedding, and limit the rat’s ability to gnaw the dressing. Monitor the site for signs of worsening infection: increased redness, swelling, pus, or loss of appetite. If any of these occur, seek professional veterinary care promptly.