What glue is used for mice? - briefly
Commercial mouse‑trap adhesives are petroleum‑based or synthetic resin glues designed to stay tacky at ambient temperature and immobilize rodents without toxic chemicals. They are provided as pre‑coated pads or liquid that solidifies into a strong, non‑drying bond.
What glue is used for mice? - in detail
The adhesive selected for rodent handling must bond securely to fur and skin while causing minimal irritation and allowing rapid removal after the procedure. Laboratory protocols typically recommend cyanoacrylate‑based tissue glue for short‑term attachment of devices such as telemetry transmitters or headplates. This fast‑acting formulation polymerises within seconds on contact with moisture, creating a strong yet flexible bond that tolerates the animal’s movement. Veterinary‑grade variants contain reduced toxic additives, limiting systemic absorption.
Silicone adhesives serve as an alternative when a more pliable interface is required. Medical‑grade silicone sealants remain tacky for several hours, conforming to the curvature of the mouse’s body and providing a gentle hold for larger implants or wound dressings. Their low viscosity enables precise application with a micro‑pipette, and they can be peeled off without damaging tissue when cured.
For permanent fixation of implanted hardware, epoxy resin composites are occasionally used. These two‑component systems cure over minutes to hours, yielding a rigid, waterproof seal that resists corrosion and mechanical stress. However, they demand careful mixing ratios and thorough curing; premature exposure to the animal can cause thermal injury.
When dealing with pest‑control traps, the glue employed is a high‑viscosity, non‑drying adhesive composed of rubber‑based polymers. The formulation remains tacky indefinitely, immobilising the mouse upon contact. It is typically applied to flat surfaces of snap‑type or live‑capture traps and is formulated to resist environmental temperature fluctuations.
Key considerations for choosing an adhesive include:
- Biocompatibility: minimal cytotoxicity and allergic potential.
- Curing time: rapid set for procedural efficiency, or slower cure for adjustable placement.
- Flexibility: ability to accommodate animal movement without tearing fur.
- Removal: ease of debonding without tissue trauma, often achieved with a solvent such as acetone for cyanoacrylates or silicone remover for silicone adhesives.
- Durability: resistance to moisture, urine, and bedding material.
Proper application techniques involve cleaning the target area with sterile saline, drying gently, and using a fine‑tip applicator to deposit a controlled droplet. After placement, the adhesive should be monitored for complete polymerisation before allowing the mouse to resume normal activity. Safety protocols mandate wearing gloves, working in a ventilated area, and disposing of excess glue according to hazardous waste guidelines.