How to wash white mice? - briefly
Use a gentle lukewarm water rinse with a mild, non‑ionic surfactant, avoiding full immersion; hold the mouse securely, rinse briefly, then dry with soft paper towels and keep warm until completely dry.
How to wash white mice? - in detail
When cleaning white laboratory mice, follow a protocol that protects animal welfare and prevents contamination.
Prepare a clean work area with a dedicated sink or basin, sterile disposable gloves, and a soft, lint‑free brush. Use only water at room temperature (20‑22 °C); avoid hot or cold extremes that could stress the animal. Add a mild, non‑ionic surfact surfactant (e.g., 0.1 % diluted laboratory‑grade detergent) if fur is heavily soiled. Rinse the solution with distilled water to eliminate residues.
- Restrain gently – hold the mouse by the scruff of the neck with one hand, supporting the body with the other. Avoid excessive force; the goal is to keep the animal calm while preventing injury.
- Apply water – using a pipette or a fine spray nozzle, wet the fur from the head toward the tail. Do not submerge the animal; keep the head above water to maintain breathing.
- Brush lightly – run the soft brush through the coat in the direction of hair growth. Remove debris without pulling.
- Rinse – repeat the wetting step with clean distilled water to wash away detergent.
- Dry promptly – pat the fur with a sterile, absorbent towel. If necessary, place the mouse in a warm (30 °C) drying chamber for a few minutes, monitoring for signs of hypothermia.
After washing, inspect the mouse for skin irritation, wounds, or signs of distress. Return the animal to its cage with fresh bedding and provide access to water and food. Record the procedure in the animal care log, noting the date, any observations, and the personnel involved.
Maintain strict aseptic technique throughout: sterilize all reusable tools, discard disposable items after single use, and disinfect the work surface after each session. This ensures consistent hygiene while safeguarding the health of the mice.