How can you identify an infected mouse? - briefly
Observe lethargy, ruffled fur, weight loss, and abnormal breathing or discharge. Confirm infection with laboratory tests such as PCR, serology, or microbial culture.
How can you identify an infected mouse? - in detail
Observing a rodent for disease requires systematic assessment of appearance, behavior, and physiological indicators. Physical signs include:
- Ruffled or patchy fur, especially around the head, neck, and tail.
- Redness, swelling, or ulceration of the skin, particularly on the ears, feet, or abdomen.
- Discharge from the eyes, nose, or mouth; any abnormal secretions may indicate respiratory or systemic infection.
- Abnormal gait, limping, or tremors, suggesting musculoskeletal or neurological involvement.
- Weight loss evident by a noticeable reduction in body mass or a hollowed abdomen.
Behavioral changes provide additional clues:
- Lethargy or reduced activity compared to normal exploratory patterns.
- Excessive grooming or scratching, which can reflect skin irritation or parasitic infestation.
- Aggression or irritability, potentially linked to pain or central nervous system infection.
- Loss of appetite, manifested by decreased consumption of standard chow or water.
Laboratory diagnostics confirm the presence of pathogens:
- Blood sampling for complete blood count; leukocytosis or neutropenia often accompanies infection.
- Serological assays to detect antibodies against common rodent pathogens such as hantavirus, LCMV, or Mycoplasma.
- PCR testing of tissue or swab samples for viral, bacterial, or fungal DNA.
- Necropsy with histopathological examination of organs to identify inflammatory lesions or microbial colonies.
Environmental observations support the assessment:
- Presence of contaminated bedding, droppings, or urine with abnormal odor or consistency.
- Elevated humidity or temperature fluctuations that promote microbial growth.
- Co‑habitation with other sick animals, indicating possible transmission.
Combining visual inspection, behavioral monitoring, and targeted laboratory analysis yields a reliable determination of infection status in a mouse. Prompt identification enables appropriate quarantine, treatment, and prevention measures.