Versatile Swine Laboratory Apparatus for Physiologic and Metabolic Studies

Abstract

The design of a versatile metabolism apparatus for swine in the research laboratory is described, and the application of the apparatus is discussed. The main features of the apparatus are as follows: (1) It is constructed entirely of stainless steel, steel and acrylic plastic: (2) It is easily moved from room to room; (3) It is adjustable to accommodate pigs between 23 and 100 kg. bodyweight; (4) It provides convenient access to almost every anatomic region of the pig. Accessory equipment described includes an exercise pen and a moveable floor ramp for animals to walk into and out of the apparatus.