Ref Code: CAT11

Category

Teaching - 2

Research - 4

Objective

To collect a sample of parotid saliva from restrained animals in order to measure the levels of various physiologically important substances, in particular, steroid hormones (eg free cortisol), sodium and potassium, vanillyl mandelic acid etc.

Alternatives to animal use for teaching

Video

Details of Procedure

The animal is restrained with conventional restraint techniques (eg held in a cattle crush) and head movement is restrained, either by using a rope halter or held by a person. A soft plastic bulb pipette with a rubber bulb, a vacuum-operated pipette or other aspiration device with a plastic disposable pipette, is inserted between the cheek and the lower jaw, along the side of the mouth towards the back teeth. Saliva is drawn into the pipette, either by the bulb or the aspiration device. The pipette is withdrawn and the sample placed into a collection tube.

Drugs, chemicals, or biological agents

As a stimulus to salivation, citric acid can be used when quantities greater than 2mL of saliva are required.Another method for promoting salivation is to use a gag like the bit from a horse’s bridle, particularly one which contains copper.

Impact of procedure on the wellbeing of animal(s)

The method is non-invasive and thus has little effect on the well-being of the animal.

Reuse and repeated use

The procedure may be repeated if cattle remain quiet and are not distressed by handling.

Care of animal(s) during/after procedure

Reasonable care should be exercised in restraining the animals and inserting the pipette.

Pain relief measures

None required.

Qualifications, experience or training necessary to perform this procedure

None required beyond familiarity with the restraint techniques used for cattle.