What type of injection is administered directly into the muscle of an animal?

Intramuscular injection is administered directly into the muscle tissue of an animal. This method allows for the delivery of medications or vaccines that require rapid absorption into the bloodstream, as muscles have a rich blood supply.

Using intramuscular injections is beneficial for several reasons: they can accommodate larger volumes of fluid compared to other types of injections, such as subcutaneous, which is applied just under the skin. It also tends to produce a quicker onset of action for medications than subcutaneous administration.

Additionally, this method is often used when a more potent effect is needed, such as with certain vaccines or medications meant for rapid systemic effect. Understanding the various forms of injections is crucial in animal science, as the choice of injection site and method can impact the efficacy of treatments and the well-being of the animal.