Rats are commonly used animals in laboratory experiments. In any study of rats that involves mechanical ventilation to assist and control respiration, the establishment of a stable artificial airway is a prerequisite for the success of experiments. Simple, safe and reliable airway management adds an element of convenience to the laboratory research, and also improves the welfare of the laboratory animals. This review of endotracheal intubation in rats summarizes recent research and applications of the method ology, influential factors and evaluation method , and explores a set of simple, safe and reliable airway management strategies.