Musk rats, particularly males that are known for producing musk, can be raised in pairs or individually in standard enclosures using conventional feeding and management practices. It is recommended to collect the musk from March to September, based on the morphological and histological development of the salamander-like scent gland capsule. This period ensures optimal conditions for both the animal's health and the quality of the musk produced.
For the extraction process, a simple restraint device can be constructed using 16-gauge welded wire mesh. The cage design should measure 25 cm in length, with the front opening (front end) having a diameter of 6.5 cm and the rear opening (back end) measuring 8 cm. The central section should have a diameter of 7.5 cm. This structure allows the musk rat’s head to enter comfortably while restricting movement, preventing it from turning or biting during the procedure. Before extracting the musk, the tail should be gently held, allowing the head to be guided into the restraint device.
During the extraction, the left hand should hold the restraint device, while the thumb and forefinger grasp the musk rat’s back. With the right hand, the thumb and index finger gently massage or pinch the skin over the abdomen to locate the scent gland. Starting from the head of the gland, the area is massaged toward the tail, applying slightly more pressure as needed. A 10 ml or 50 ml glass tube or bottle is placed at the prepuce of the penis, where the musk naturally flows. After extracting from one side, the same process is repeated on the other. The extraction continues until the gland becomes soft and no further musk is released. Over-extraction can cause pain, damage the gland, reduce future secretion, and affect the musk rat’s ability to regenerate its musk.
After the collection, the musk rats are returned to their nests and kept in a quiet environment. The glands typically refill within 13 days, after which the process can be repeated. Musk liquid should be stored in glass bottles with tight-fitting stoppers and kept refrigerated at 4°C. High-quality musk is usually a milky white, viscous substance with a distinct, unique fragrance.
Male musk rats can be collected for musk between 15 to 17 times annually from March to September. On average, each male can produce over 0.8 grams of musk per year. The frequency of collection should ideally be every two weeks. However, if the musk is extracted three times consecutively, the amount produced will drop significantly—approximately 59% less than the first time. Therefore, it is best to wait at least 18 days between the second and third collections. Additionally, the timing should be adjusted based on the musk rat’s overall health and the volume of musk present in the glands. Proper care and monitoring ensure sustainable and ethical musk production.
Sweet And Spicy Flavor Kimchi,Fermented Pickled Vegetables,Korean Green Chili Kimchi,Spicy Cabbage Kimchi
Yanbian Jingangshan Food Co., Ltd , https://www.ybjgsfood.com