What should be used to wipe a rat's eyes? - briefly
A sterile saline solution applied with a soft, lint‑free gauze pad or cotton swab should be used to clean a rat's eyes.
What should be used to wipe a rat's eyes? - in detail
A sterile isotonic saline solution applied with a soft, lint‑free gauze pad or a cotton‑tipped applicator is the safest choice for cleaning a rodent’s ocular surface. Warm the solution to body temperature (approximately 37 °C) to prevent shock. Gently lift the eyelid and wipe from the inner canthus outward, using a single, clean portion of the pad for each pass to avoid re‑contamination.
If the animal exhibits significant discharge, a veterinary‑grade ophthalmic ointment or artificial tear drops can be added after cleaning. Products containing only preservative‑free hyaluronic acid or carboxymethylcellulose are preferred; they maintain moisture without irritating the delicate tissue.
Avoid the following substances:
- Alcohol‑based wipes or antiseptics
- Hydrogen peroxide, iodine, or bleach solutions
- Regular cotton balls or wool, which may leave fibers in the eye
When performing the procedure:
- Restrain the rat gently but securely, using a towel or a hand‑held holder to minimize stress.
- Inspect the eye for signs of irritation, swelling, or persistent secretion.
- Apply the saline or ophthalmic solution with a sterile applicator, limiting contact time to a few seconds.
- Dispose of the used material in a biohazard container.
Persistent redness, swelling, or excessive tearing warrants immediate veterinary evaluation, as underlying infections or injuries may require prescription medication. Regular eye maintenance, performed no more than once daily, helps prevent buildup of debris and reduces the risk of corneal damage.