Examples of complications that will result in pain and/or distress if the
procedures are not carried out properly
1. Oral gavage
Oral gavage should be used only when a specific volume of a substance needs to be administered
orally, and administration of the substance through feed or drinking water is not scientifically
acceptable.
The volume of administration should not exceed 10ml/kg and the frequency of administration
should not exceed 3 times per day.
The procedure should only be performed by trained personnel.
Oral gavage that is not carried out properly includes perforation of the esophagus or stomach
and delivery of fluid into the lungs.
Animals should be monitored for the following complications 10 minutes immediately after
administration and again 12-24 hours after administration:
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
bleeding
inappetence
difficult or labored breathing
lethargy
mucous membrane discoloration.