Table 2.

Advantages and limitations: administration of antibiotics

	Advantages	Limitations
Drinking water (Table 4)	Suitable for repeated administration Least stressful method Good absorption in GI tract	Single housing necessary if the dose needs to be monitored Consumption variability if grouped together Unpalatability can restrict intake leading to dehydration26
Oral gavage (Table 5)	Dosage monitored Good absorption in GI tract	Not very suitable for repeated administration The gavage procedure is stressful for the animal Repeat dosing should be carried out at approx. the same time each day Severe adverse effect if gavage tubes are incorrectly placed Technically difficult method
Combination (Table 6)	Abx can be administered accordingly to their pharmacokinetics Good absorption in GI tract