Rat

Handling and Restraint

Rats are typically docile animals, particularly if they are routinely handled using appropriate techniques. Bites from rats are uncommon and will typically only occur if the animal is stressed or in pain. To initially restrain a rat, the handler should gently grasp it around the shoulders.

The handler's thumb can then be placed under the rat's mandible, to prevent bites, and the rat's hindlimbs can be supported with the other hand. Restraint should be firm but not too tight as this will impede the animal's respiration.

This video clip shows the correct methods for handling and restraint in the rat.

Handling for injection

This video clip shows the correct method for subcutaneous injections in rats.

As with gerbils and hamsters, intraperitoneal injections may be made into caudal half of the abdomen with the needle directed along the line of the hind limb.