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Definition
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The blood glucose is the amount of glucose present in a blood sample and is typically given in mg/dL. Glucose levels rise when sugar is consumed (including carbohydrates). Sugars are then broken down into their basic component, glucose. Insulin released from the pancreas in healthy rats is utilized to further break down the glucose into usable elements.
Checking Blood Glucose
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Glucometers are used to measure the blood glucose level. Only a small drop is needed to check the blood glucose. To get this drop in rats, obtain a blood sample from either a saphenous (back leg) vein, the tail vein or a toenail. Use a glucometer to measure the blood glucose.
Fasted Rats
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As with all fasted mammals, the blood glucose level decreases significantly over time since no sugar is consumed. Fasting blood glucose for rats ranges from 50 to 109 mg/dL.
High Blood Glucose
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When the blood glucose in rats is high (above 135 mg/dL), this typically means that a large meal has been consumed and insulin is still working to break down the glucose. If blood glucose is high in fasted rats, diabetes may be present.
Diabetes in Rats
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Alloxan is given to laboratory rats to induce diabetes for a number of research projects. Diabetic pet rats are rare; consult with your local exotic veterinarian for treatment.
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Normal Rat Blood Glucose Level
The blood glucose of normal, healthy rats varies between 50 to 135 mg/dL. As with all mammals, the blood glucose depends on the type of food consumed and time since the last meal.