Introduction:

Providing sufficient hydration for lactating rodents can be a challenge, particularly during periods of increased water demand, such as peak lactation. Traditional water bottles or bowls may not always meet the needs of animals under stress or during transport, leaving them vulnerable to dehydration or malnutrition. This is where Necta Gel comes in—a versatile, non-leaking water gel that was successfully utilised in a recent study to support the hydration needs of female mice during critical periods.

Necta Gel is designed to be more than just a hydration source; it offers an innovative and flexible solution that improves animal welfare, supports research outcomes, and simplifies the management of hydration in laboratory settings.

How Necta Gel Supported the Study:

In Uppsala Sweden, a study exploring hydration in lactating female mice, various hydration methods were tested to determine their effectiveness in maintaining physiological hydration levels. Necta Gel was one of the supplemental hydration sources provided alongside traditional water bottles and water bowls. The results demonstrated several key benefits of using Necta Gel:

1. Reliable, Non-Leaking Hydration Source: Necta Gel’s non-leaking formulation was ideal for use during the study, providing a stable source of hydration without the risk of spills or contamination. This is especially beneficial for lab managers looking to maintain clean and hygienic cages during research.
2. Versatile Application: The gel’s flexible application allowed it to be easily placed in different locations within the cages, making it accessible for all rodents, including those recovering post-surgery or in transport. This versatility made Necta Gel a preferred hydration method for researchers aiming to provide hydration in less accessible conditions.
3. Supplemental Hydration During Increased Demand: During peak lactation, the water needs of female mice can increase by up to 65% of their body weight. Necta Gel provided a reliable supplemental hydration source, helping the lactating mice maintain hydration even when their water consumption increased significantly.
4. Minimising Cross-Contamination: Because Necta Gel can be provided in individual sachets, it minimizes the risk of cross-contamination. This feature is crucial in maintaining the health of lab animals, particularly when dealing with high-density populations or when using medicated versions of the gel.

Study Highlights:

• The study found that, despite the increased water needs during peak lactation, none of the female mice showed signs of dehydration, thanks in part to the consistent hydration provided by Necta Gel.
• Mice in the study showed a preference for alternative water sources like bowls, but Necta Gel was still found to be effective as a backup or supplemental hydration source.
• The use of Necta Gel during transport and post-surgery recovery demonstrated its suitability for maintaining hydration in various scenarios beyond routine daily needs.

Why Choose Necta Gel for Your Research Facility?

1. Multi-Use Solution: Necta Gel isn’t just for hydration. It can be used as a medium for drug or nutrient administration, making it a versatile addition to your research toolkit. The pre-medicated version, Necta Plus+, even comes infused with Fenbendazole, providing an efficient way to treat pinworms without the challenges of traditional feed crumbles.

2. Long Shelf Life: With a shelf life of up to 2 years, Necta Gel is the perfect emergency hydration solution. Keep it on hand as part of your disaster recovery plan and never worry about water supply failures disrupting your research again.

3. Supports Post-Surgery Recovery: Available in a raspberry flavor, Necta Gel encourages fluid intake in rodents post-surgery, supporting a faster recovery process.

4. Simplifies Transport Hydration: Necta Gel’s non-leaking, pre-packaged sachets are ideal for use during animal transport. Simply hang the sachet on the side of the transport box, and you can ensure your animals remain hydrated without the risk of spills or contamination.

Conclusion:

The study clearly highlighted the benefits of using Necta Gel as a supplemental hydration solution, particularly during periods of increased demand like peak lactation. With its unique formulation, ease of use, and versatility, Necta Gel is the go-to hydration solution for research facilities looking to maintain the welfare and health of their rodents.

Whether it’s for routine hydration, medication delivery, or disaster planning, Necta Gel is designed to support the health and wellbeing of your animals—no matter the situation. Make it an essential part of your research facility’s hydration strategy today!

Ready to learn more? Download the Certificate of Analysis (COA) to see how Necta Gel can support your research.

Link to the study: https://ojs.utlib.ee/index.php/SJLAS/article/view/21985/16715