How do you rinse a mouse? - briefly
Use a soft, lint‑free cloth lightly moistened with a mild soap‑water solution to wipe the mouse, then follow with a dry cloth to remove any moisture.
How do you rinse a mouse? - in detail
Cleaning a laboratory mouse by rinsing requires strict adherence to hygiene standards to prevent contamination and ensure animal welfare.
First, prepare a sterile workstation. Use a clean, non‑porous surface, such as a stainless‑steel tray, and disinfect it with an approved solution. Wear disposable gloves, a lab coat, and, if required, eye protection.
Second, assemble the necessary materials:
- Sterile, lukewarm distilled water (temperature 35–37 °C)
- Mild, non‑ionic detergent approved for animal use
- Soft, lint‑free wipes or gauze pads
- Disposable pipettes or syringes for controlled water delivery
- Absorbent paper towels for drying
- Biohazard waste container for disposable items
Third, perform the rinsing sequence:
- Place the mouse gently on the tray, supporting the body to avoid stress.
- Apply a small amount of detergent to a wipe and lightly clean the fur and skin, focusing on areas prone to debris (ears, paws, tail).
- Rinse the detergent away by dispensing a steady stream of lukewarm water over the animal’s coat, using a pipette or syringe to control flow and prevent immersion.
- Continue rinsing until the water runs clear, indicating removal of soap residues.
- Pat the animal dry with absorbent paper towels, taking care not to rub vigorously.
- Inspect the coat for remaining moisture; if necessary, repeat a brief rinse‑dry cycle.
Finally, monitor the mouse for signs of distress or hypothermia. Return the animal to its cage only after it is fully dry and its body temperature is stable. Dispose of all used materials in the biohazard container according to institutional protocols. Document the procedure in the animal care log, noting any abnormalities observed during the rinse.