How can you disinfect a cage after a rat? - briefly
Remove all bedding, wash the cage with hot soapy water, rinse, then apply a «10 % bleach solution» for ten minutes, rinse again, and dry thoroughly. Allow the enclosure to air‑dry completely before re‑housing any animal.
How can you disinfect a cage after a rat? - in detail
After a rodent has been housed, the enclosure must be cleared of all bedding, food, and waste. Dispose of these materials in a sealed bag and remove any detachable components such as water bottles, feeders, and tunnels.
Clean the interior with hot water and a mild detergent. Scrub surfaces, corners, and mesh panels until visible debris disappears. Rinse thoroughly to eliminate soap residue.
Apply a registered disinfectant suitable for small‑animal facilities. Recommended options include a 10 % bleach solution (one part sodium hypochlorite to nine parts water) or a 2 % quaternary ammonium compound. Ensure the solution contacts all surfaces for the manufacturer‑specified dwell time, typically 10–15 minutes. Use a spray bottle or immersion method to reach hard‑to‑see areas.
After the disinfectant period, flush the cage with clean water to remove chemical traces. Allow the enclosure to air‑dry completely; a fan or low‑heat dryer can accelerate drying.
Reassemble the cage, replace fresh bedding, and reinstall accessories. For future use, consider a routine schedule: weekly cleaning with detergent, monthly disinfection, and periodic inspection of seals and joints for wear.
Maintain a log documenting cleaning dates, agents used, and contact times. This record supports compliance with laboratory animal care standards and helps identify any deviations that could compromise biosecurity.