Animal Husbandry and Care Flashcards

What is the recommended relative humidity range for most laboratory rodent housing facilities?

Answer: 30–70%

The Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals recommends 30–70% relative humidity for most rodent species.

A mouse is observed barbering cage-mates, causing patchy hair loss. What is the most appropriate first step?

Answer: Separate the barber mouse from cage-mates

Isolating the barbering animal is the primary behavioral intervention to prevent further hair loss in cage-mates.

Which route of administration is used when delivering a substance directly into the abdominal cavity of a rodent?

Answer: Intraperitoneal (IP)

Intraperitoneal injection delivers substances into the peritoneal cavity and is commonly used in rodents for drug administration.

What environmental enrichment item is considered essential for rabbits housed in laboratory settings?

Answer: Nesting material or hiding box

Rabbits benefit greatly from hiding boxes or nesting material that allow them to express natural sheltering behaviors.

How often should automatic watering systems in rodent facilities be checked for proper function?

Answer: Daily

Automatic watering systems must be checked daily to ensure valves are functioning and water is available to all animals.

A technician notices a rat's incisors are overgrown and the animal is losing weight. What is the likely cause?

Answer: Malocclusion preventing normal eating

Malocclusion causes incisor overgrowth that prevents proper prehension of food, leading to weight loss in rats.

What is the primary purpose of the HEPA filter in an individually ventilated cage (IVC) rack?

Answer: To filter exhaust air and protect the facility from cage-level pathogens

HEPA filters on IVC exhaust prevent cage-level pathogens and allergens from entering the room environment.