Which statement about oral gavage in mice is NOT true?

• A. Anesthesia reduces esophageal trauma caused by gavage.
• B. Gavage should be performed by trained staff.
• C. Anesthesia of the mouse can increase esophageal trauma caused by the gavage.
• D. Gavage has minimal risk when performed properly.

Answer: (C)

The key idea here is safety and control during gavage in mice. The risk to the esophagus comes from how the tube is inserted and how the animal is restrained and handled, not from the idea that anesthesia will automatically protect against injury. When experienced staff perform gavage with proper technique—using the right tube size, adequate lubrication, gentle advancement, and correct placement—the procedure carries minimal risk.

The statement about anesthesia increasing esophageal trauma is not accurate. Anesthesia tends to reduce movement and reflex responses during the procedure, which can actually make placement smoother and less traumatic when performed by someone who is skilled. The overall safety relies more on training and technique than on whether the animal is anesthetized. That’s why the other points are aligned with good practice: gavage should be done by trained personnel, and with proper technique the risk is minimal.