Figure 1: Example of penis examination in the rat
and photos of proteinaceous plug.
 Step 1: After placing the rat on his back in your lap or on a comfortable surface, gently apply pressure with both thumbs, or thumb and index finger, approximately ½ cm distances on each side of the penis. |
 Step 2: Carefully massage to project penis outward from the sheath. |
 Step 3: Penis is protruded from sheath to check for a plug or any other abnormalities. |
 Photo 1: Shows firm, cream colored material protruding from the urethral opening of the penis. |
 Photo 2: Another view of proteinaceous plug material. |
*Note: after removing plug with a clean cloth or disposable tissue, ensure the sheath is gently returned to its normal position covering the penis.
