What do you need for mice and rats? - briefly
Essential supplies for laboratory or pet mice and rats include a properly sized cage, absorbent bedding, a nutritionally balanced feed, a clean water source, enrichment objects such as tunnels or chew toys, and basic health‑monitoring equipment.
What do you need for mice and rats? - in detail
Keeping small rodents such as mice and rats demands a comprehensive set of resources to ensure health, welfare, and experimental reliability. The essential components are grouped into housing, nutrition, environmental enrichment, sanitation, and health monitoring.
The cage system must provide adequate space, ventilation, and structural integrity. Minimum floor area should meet or exceed regulatory standards, typically 75 cm² per mouse and 150 cm² per rat, with height sufficient for vertical movement. Cages should be constructed of autoclavable material, feature a secure lid, and allow easy access for cleaning.
Bedding material should be absorbent, low‑dust, and non‑toxic. Options include paper‑based, aspen, or corncob substrates. Bedding depth of 2–3 cm facilitates nesting while preventing moisture buildup. Regular replacement—at least twice weekly—maintains a dry environment.
Nutrition comprises a nutritionally complete pelleted diet formulated for the species and life stage. Food should be provided ad libitum in a hopper or tray that prevents spillage. Water must be supplied continuously via an autoclaved bottle or a filtered tap system, with a capacity to meet daily intake of approximately 5 ml per mouse and 30 ml per rat.
Environmental enrichment enhances natural behaviors and reduces stress. Essential items include:
- Nesting material (e.g., shredded paper) for construction of shelters.
- Chewable objects (e.g., wooden blocks) to promote dental health.
- Tubes or tunnels that allow exploration and hide‑away spaces.
- Activity wheels for voluntary exercise, sized appropriately for each species.
Sanitation protocols require routine cage cleaning, disinfection of all reusable equipment, and proper waste disposal. Autoclaving or chemical disinfection of cages and accessories must be performed after each changeover. Floor surfaces should be cleaned daily with an approved laboratory detergent, followed by a thorough rinse.
Health monitoring involves periodic veterinary examinations, observation for clinical signs, and diagnostic testing for common pathogens. Quarantine of new arrivals for a minimum of 30 days, combined with serological screening, prevents introduction of infectious agents. Record‑keeping of weight, behavior, and clinical observations supports early detection of health issues.
Finally, auxiliary equipment such as temperature‑controlled rooms (20–26 °C), humidity regulation (30–70 % relative humidity), and a 12‑hour light/dark cycle is indispensable for maintaining stable physiological conditions. Monitoring devices should log environmental parameters continuously, with alarms set for deviations beyond acceptable ranges.
Collectively, these provisions constitute a detailed framework for the proper care and management of laboratory mice and rats.