What should be used to rinse a rat’s eyes? - briefly
Use sterile isotonic saline (0.9 % NaCl) applied with a sterile pipette or eye‑wash system to gently flush the rat’s ocular surface.
What should be used to rinse a rat’s eyes? - in detail
Sterile isotonic saline (0.9 % NaCl) is the preferred fluid for ocular irrigation in laboratory rats. It matches the osmolarity of the ocular surface, minimizes cellular stress, and is readily available in veterinary settings. Alternative ophthalmic irrigation solutions, such as balanced salt solution (BSS) or lactated Ringer’s, are acceptable when they are sterile, pH‑balanced, and free of preservatives.
Recommended fluids
- Sterile 0.9 % sodium chloride solution, room temperature (20‑22 °C).
- Balanced salt solution, sterile and preservative‑free.
- Lactated Ringer’s, sterile, isotonic, and preservative‑free.
Equipment
- Sterile 1‑ml or 5‑ml syringe with a blunt cannula or a sterile ophthalmic irrigation tip.
- Disposable pipette or droplet applicator for small volumes.
- Sterile gauze pads for gentle blotting after flushing.
- Heat‑resistant container for warming fluid to body temperature if needed.
Procedure
- Verify fluid sterility and temperature.
- Restrain the rat gently, using a trained handler or a small animal restrainer to prevent eye injury.
- Position the head so the affected eye faces downward, avoiding pressure on the globe.
- Apply fluid in a continuous stream, using a syringe or irrigation tip, delivering 0.5–1 ml per eye.
- Allow the fluid to flow across the corneal surface, flushing debris and irritants.
- Pat the peri‑ocular area dry with sterile gauze.
- Observe the animal for signs of persistent irritation, corneal opacity, or discharge; consult a veterinarian if abnormalities persist.
Contraindicated substances
- Alcohol‑based solutions, because they cause epithelial damage.
- Hydrogen peroxide, which induces oxidative injury.
- Antiseptic eye drops containing preservatives (e.g., benzalkonium chloride) unless specifically prescribed.
- Non‑sterile tap water, due to microbial contamination and hypo‑osmolarity.
Post‑irrigation care
- Monitor intra‑ocular pressure and reflexes for at least 15 minutes.
- If inflammation remains, a veterinary professional may prescribe ophthalmic antibiotics or anti‑inflammatory agents.
- Document volume, fluid type, and any adverse reactions for laboratory records.
Using sterile isotonic solutions with proper equipment and technique ensures effective removal of contaminants while preserving corneal integrity and overall ocular health in rodents.