Ref Code: CAT17

Category

Teaching - 2

Research - 4

Objective

1.  Drenching - to administer pharmaceuticals by the oral route.

2.  Mouthing - to examine the mouth of an animal.

Alternatives to animal use for teaching

Video

Details of Procedure

For both procedures, cattle should be restrained in a head bail.

1. Drenching: The drenching gun is passed gently, but firmly, over the back of the tongue, taking care to avoid damage to the mouth and gums. Care must be taken to avoid passage of drench into the trachea.

It is most important to read the label of the drench carefully before beginning, taking into account method of administration, dose rates, suitable equipment for administration of the drench and withholding periods.

The use of cattle hook drench gun extensions in the race may be used by experienced operators.

2. Mouthing. Examination of the mouth may be performed to:

   (i) determine the age of a beast;

   (ii) check for loss of teeth and condition of teeth;

   (iii) examine the mouth for evidence of foreign bodies, grass seed abscesses or other disease.

The lower lip can be manipulated by hand in a well designed head bail. The routine use of nose pliers is not recommended.

Drugs, chemicals, or biological agents

Whichever drench is required.

Impact of procedure on the wellbeing of animal(s)

Minimal if handled carefully.

Reuse and repeated use

Procedures should be carried out no more than twice on each animal on each occasion. Animals may be used again at not less than weekly intervals. It is preferable to use quiet animals accustomed to restraint. Animals which respond aggressively to restraint should not be used for teaching.

Care of animal(s) during/after procedure

Livestock should be handled quietly before, during and after the procedure.

Pain relief measures

Not required

Qualifications, experience or training necessary to perform this procedure

Demonstrator: Experience in the procedure

Students: Competence in cattle handling