How do mice die? - briefly
Mice usually die from predation, infectious disease, trauma, extreme temperature exposure, or age‑related organ failure. In research facilities, euthanasia is commonly achieved with carbon‑dioxide inhalation or anesthetic overdose.
How do mice die? - in detail
Mice reach the end of life through several biological and environmental mechanisms. Their natural lifespan in the wild averages 12–18 months, while laboratory strains may live 2–3 years under optimal conditions.
Age‑related decline
- Gradual loss of organ function, particularly renal and cardiovascular systems.
- Accumulation of cellular damage leading to frailty and reduced immune competence.
Infectious diseases
- Bacterial infections such as Salmonella or Streptococcus produce septicemia.
- Viral agents including murine norovirus and hantavirus cause systemic failure.
- Parasitic infestations (e.g., Mycobacterium spp., helminths) impair nutrition and organ health.
Predation and trauma
- Avian, reptilian, and mammalian predators inflict lethal injuries.
- Accidental wounds from environmental hazards (sharp objects, traps) result in hemorrhage or organ rupture.
Environmental stressors
- Extreme temperatures induce hyperthermia or hypothermia, disrupting metabolic homeostasis.
- Deprivation of water or food leads to dehydration and starvation, culminating in organ failure.
- Exposure to toxic chemicals (rodenticides, heavy metals) causes neurotoxicity or hepatic failure.
Experimental euthanasia
- Controlled administration of anesthetic agents (e.g., isoflurane, pentobarbital) induces rapid loss of consciousness followed by cardiac arrest.
- Physical methods (CO₂ inhalation) depress respiratory drive, leading to hypoxia and cessation of circulation.
Each pathway ultimately converges on the failure of vital systems—cardiovascular collapse, respiratory arrest, or irreversible organ damage—resulting in death.