Description
These polyurethane gavage needles from Instech are designed to administer a size 9 gelatin capsule to rats (or rodents of similar size). The flexible tubes reduce the possibility of trauma compared to metal and rigid dispensing syringes. They are supplied in boxes of 10 sterile pouches of two and are 85mm long. The end of the tube grips 2.65mm diameter capsules with a taper that allows the grip to be controlled by the force with which the capsule is inserted into the tube. The front edge of the tube is rounded to prevent damage to the esophagus. Expel the capsule with air, water or saline in a syringe connected to the luer end of the dispensing tube. Using water or saline will be more effective than air, as air compresses, and following the capsule with a liquid can help the capsule move into the stomach.
