Where to inject Baytril into a rat? - briefly
«Subcutaneous injection in the dorsal cervical region (scruff) or intramuscular injection into the quadriceps of the hind limb provides reliable absorption of Baytril in rats».
Where to inject Baytril into a rat? - in detail
Baytril (enrofloxacin) administration in laboratory rats requires precise placement to ensure consistent absorption and minimize tissue trauma. The most commonly employed routes are subcutaneous, intraperitoneal, intramuscular, and intravenous; each has specific anatomical considerations.
Subcutaneous injection is performed in the dorsal scruff region, between the shoulder blades. The skin is gently lifted to create a tent, allowing the needle to enter at a shallow angle (15–30°). This site provides rapid absorption with minimal discomfort and is suitable for volumes up to 0.5 ml.
Intraperitoneal injection targets the lower right abdominal quadrant, avoiding the cecum and bladder. The needle is inserted at a 45° angle through the skin and peritoneum, reaching the peritoneal cavity without contacting internal organs. Volumes of 0.5–1 ml are tolerated, delivering systemic exposure comparable to subcutaneous administration.
Intramuscular injection is placed in the quadriceps muscle of the hind limb. The muscle is palpated, and the needle is inserted perpendicular to the skin, penetrating the muscle belly to a depth of 5–7 mm. This route offers a slower release, useful for prolonged therapeutic levels. Recommended volume does not exceed 0.2 ml per site.
Intravenous injection utilizes the lateral tail vein. The tail is warmed to dilate the vessel, and a 27–30 G needle is introduced at a shallow angle, ensuring entry into the lumen without extravasation. Volumes are limited to 0.1–0.2 ml to prevent cardiac overload. This method provides the fastest systemic distribution and is ideal for pharmacokinetic studies.
Key procedural steps applicable to all routes:
- Restrain the rat using a gentle but secure method, such as a rodent restrainer or a towel fold, to prevent movement.
- Disinfect the injection site with 70 % isopropanol and allow it to dry before needle insertion.
- Select an appropriate needle gauge (27–30 G) and length (½‑1 in) based on the chosen route and injection volume.
- Inject the solution steadily, avoiding high pressure that could cause tissue rupture.
- Observe the animal for 5–10 minutes post‑injection to ensure recovery and detect any adverse reactions.
Adhering to these guidelines ensures accurate delivery of Baytril, supporting reliable experimental outcomes and animal welfare.