A new method for long-term intravenous alimentation in unrestrained rats.

Existing equipment for long-term iv alimentation in small laboratory animals is somewhat cumbersome and quite costly. Although a one-time expense, the cost of this equipment may not be economically viable for many researchers. Herein we present a novel method for long-term iv alimentation in unrestrained rats that is practical, inexpensive, and easily assembled from readily available materials. This new "proxy" set was tested and compared with the standard swivel assembly set. Statistical analysis showed no difference in measured parameters in rats infused by either method. However, the cost of the new set (excluding pump) was almost 90 times less than its commercially available counterpart. This self-constructed approach should bring small animal research within the economic means of most investigators.