EXPERIMENTAL TECHNIQUES (cont)

A stomach tube may be passed to administer oral medications but a mouth gag or speculum should be used to prevent chewing of the tube.  The speculum is placed in the mouth with the central hole aligned with the midline of the mouth.  The lubricated tube is passed through the hole and into the mouth, nasopharynx, esophagus and finally into the stomach.

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Using a stomach tube for oral medications

Also, swine will readily consume most substances if they are placed in gelatin capsules or a palatable food such as meat balls made from dog food or fruit. Substances may also be mixed with the regular ration if they are not noxious.

 

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