What are the dangers of glue for mice? - briefly
Adhesive traps can cause severe skin irritation, respiratory distress, and fatal dehydration by immobilizing a mouse. Ingested glue may also result in gastrointestinal blockage and toxic reactions.
What are the dangers of glue for mice? - in detail
Adhesive traps and liquid glues present several acute and chronic risks to laboratory or pet mice. Direct contact with the sticky surface can immobilize the animal, preventing normal locomotion and access to food and water. Immobilization leads to rapid dehydration, hypoglycemia, and weight loss, often culminating in death within hours if the mouse cannot free itself.
The chemical composition of many glues includes solvents such as acetone, toluene, or ethylene glycol derivatives. Inhalation of volatile organic compounds can irritate the respiratory epithelium, cause bronchoconstriction, and impair gas exchange. Dermal absorption of solvent residues may produce systemic toxicity, affecting liver and kidney function.
Physical injury is common when a mouse struggles against the adhesive. Fur and skin can be torn, exposing underlying tissue to infection. The stress response triggered by entrapment elevates cortisol levels, which can suppress immune function and alter behavior, potentially compromising experimental outcomes.
Long‑term exposure to low‑level glue residues on cage surfaces or bedding can lead to chronic dermatitis, sensitization, and persistent respiratory irritation. Contamination of food or water supplies with glue fragments introduces additional ingestion hazards, including gastrointestinal obstruction and chemical poisoning.
Key hazards include:
- Immediate immobilization → loss of hydration and nutrition
- Solvent inhalation → respiratory irritation, systemic toxicity
- Skin and fur damage → infection risk, pain
- Stress‑induced physiological changes → data variability
- Chronic dermal and respiratory exposure → dermatitis, sensitization
- Ingestion of glue particles → gastrointestinal blockage, toxic effects
Mitigation requires eliminating adhesive traps from mouse housing, using alternative humane capture methods, and ensuring all surfaces are free of residual glue. Regular health monitoring can detect early signs of glue‑related injury, allowing prompt intervention and preventing mortality.