- Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician Animal Husbandry and Care Flashcards

What factors determine the appropriate cage size for a group of laboratory mice?

Answer: Number of animals, body weight, reproductive status, species-specific behavioral needs, and any protocol-specific requirements

Cage size is determined by: number and body weight of animals (per Guide floor space tables), reproductive status (breeding pairs need more space), behavioral needs (enrichment space), and protocol requirements (equipment, food access).

How should an ALAT handle the introduction of new animals into an existing group?

Answer: Follow institutional protocols which may include quarantine, gradual introduction, monitoring for aggression, and using neutral territory or clean cages

Introducing new animals requires careful management: quarantine assessment, health status verification, using clean cages as neutral territory, monitoring for aggression, and following species-specific protocols for social introduction.

What is the proper procedure for feeding laboratory rabbits?

Answer: Measured pellets based on body weight plus unlimited timothy hay for fiber and dental health, with fresh water always available

Rabbits should receive measured pellets (based on body weight to prevent obesity), unlimited timothy hay (essential for GI motility and dental wear), and continuous access to fresh water. Hay constitutes the most important component of their diet.

Why is it important to check cage lids, feeders, and water systems during cage changes?

Answer: To ensure proper function and prevent hazards: cage lids must secure to prevent escape, feeders must allow food access without trapping, and water systems must deliver water reliably

Each component must be verified functional: lids must be secure (prevent escape, predation by wild rodents), feeders must allow access without trapping animals, and water delivery must be reliable (sipper tubes clear, bottles full, automated systems flowing).

What bedding depth is generally recommended for laboratory rodents?

Answer: Approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch depth, or as specified by institutional SOPs, sufficient to absorb waste and allow burrowing behavior

Bedding should be deep enough (typically 1/4 to 1/2 inch) to absorb urine, control ammonia, provide insulation, and allow natural burrowing behavior. Depth varies by bedding type and institutional protocols.

How should an ALAT manage a cage where fighting has resulted in visible injuries?

Answer: Separate the injured animal, assess wounds and report to veterinary staff, document the incident, and consider permanent separation if aggression recurs

Immediate separation of the aggressor or injured animal, wound assessment, veterinary notification for treatment evaluation, incident documentation, and consideration of permanent housing changes to prevent recurrence.