Ref Code: CAT10

Category

Teaching - 3 (Instructor : student ratio 1:3)

Research - 4

Objective

To collect a sample for laboratory analysis.

Alternatives to animal use

Nil

Details of procedure

Restrain the animal in a crush or head bail. The sample is collected using a stomach tube passed down the nasal passage or through the mouth. Before commencing the procedure, measure the length of tube required to be passed, to ensure that the tube will rest in the rumen.

Mouth: Position a dental gag or a probang gag to allow the tube to be passed without damage from the teeth. Feed the tube gently but firmly over the base of the tongue (or through the probang gag) and pass the tube into the oesophagus.

Nasal passage: Ensure that the tube is lubricated and warm before passage. Direct the tube into the ventral nasal passage and gently pass to the level of the pharynx and oesophagus. Observe for signs that the tube is present in the oesophagus and not the trachea (the beast will breathe through a tube passed into the trachea). Pass the stomach tube until it reaches the level of the rumen. Attach a stirrup pump and use it to withdraw a sample. Fluid is not always readily obtained, however adjusting the positioning of the tube may assist. When the sample is collected, kink the tube to prevent loss of ruminal fluid from the tube, and withdraw it carefully.

Drugs, chemicals or biological agents

Nil

Impact of procedure on wellbeing of animal(s)

Procedure is well tolerated.

Reuse and repeated use

Animals should be used for one demonstration only. For research purposes, animals may be sampled twice daily.

Care of animal(s) during/after procedure

Observation

Pain relief measures

None required

Qualifications, experience skills or training necessary to perform this procedure

Demonstrator: Extensive experience with this procedure. The procedure should be clearly demonstrated to students before they attempt it and they must be closely supervised.

Students: Understanding of the anatomy of cattle, experience in restraint of cattle.