What should you do if a rat has hypertension? - briefly
Immediately refer the rat to a veterinarian for accurate blood‑pressure assessment and prescription of appropriate antihypertensive medication, while implementing diet, housing, and stress‑reduction measures under professional guidance. Do not attempt self‑medication; follow the vet’s monitoring schedule.
What should you do if a rat has hypertension? - in detail
If a laboratory rodent exhibits elevated arterial pressure, immediate veterinary assessment is required. Begin with a thorough physical examination to confirm the condition and rule out secondary causes such as renal disease, endocrine disorders, or stress‑induced spikes.
Obtain baseline measurements using a calibrated tail‑cuff system or telemetry implant. Record systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial pressures over several days to establish a reliable profile.
Implement environmental modifications: maintain ambient temperature at 20‑22 °C, reduce noise, and provide enrichment to lower stress levels. Ensure the animal’s cage is clean and bedding is changed regularly.
Adjust the diet to limit sodium intake. Offer a low‑salt rodent chow, supplement with potassium‑rich vegetables, and avoid processed treats. Provide constant access to fresh water to support renal function.
Pharmacologic intervention should follow veterinary prescription. Common antihypertensive agents for rodents include:
- ACE inhibitors (e.g., enalapril) administered via drinking water or oral gavage.
- Calcium channel blockers (e.g., amlodipine) dosed according to body weight.
- Angiotensin II receptor blockers (e.g., losartan) for cases unresponsive to ACE inhibition.
Dosage calculations must consider the rat’s weight (typically 250–300 g) and be adjusted based on periodic blood‑pressure readings.
Schedule follow‑up evaluations at least weekly for the first month, then biweekly once control is achieved. Document any adverse effects such as reduced appetite, lethargy, or renal impairment.
If medication fails to normalize pressure after an adequate trial, consider combination therapy or referral to a specialist in laboratory animal medicine.
Maintain detailed records of all interventions, measurements, and outcomes to ensure reproducibility and compliance with institutional animal‑care protocols.