What must not be done with rats? - briefly
Do not handle rats without protective gloves and a mask, and never release captive individuals into the wild. Avoid feeding them human food and refrain from using toxic chemicals for control.
What must not be done with rats? - in detail
Handling rats requires strict adherence to ethical and safety standards. Certain practices compromise animal welfare, expose handlers to disease, or violate legal regulations.
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Deliberate cruelty or physical harm – Inflicting pain, mutilation, or lethal injury without a justified scientific or veterinary reason is prohibited. This includes beating, shaking, or using excessive force to restrain the animal.
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Improper restraint techniques – Using methods that compress the thorax, restrict breathing, or cause spinal injury (e.g., tight loops of tape, snares) must be avoided. Correct restraint involves gentle scruffing combined with supporting the body to maintain airway patency.
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Neglecting hygiene and disease control – Failing to wear gloves, masks, or protective clothing when handling rodents increases the risk of zoonotic transmission (e.g., Leptospira, hantavirus). Disinfecting cages and equipment after each use is mandatory.
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Inadequate housing conditions – Overcrowding, insufficient ventilation, extreme temperatures, or lack of enrichment constitute neglect. Each rat requires at least 0.5 sq ft of floor space, fresh bedding, and opportunities for nesting and gnawing.
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Using toxic substances without justification – Applying pesticides, harsh chemicals, or non‑approved anesthetics directly to rats is forbidden. Only approved veterinary drugs should be administered, following dosage guidelines.
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Improper disposal of carcasses – Disposing of dead rats in regular trash or flushing them down drains can spread pathogens. Legal disposal methods include incineration or placement in sealed biohazard containers for licensed waste removal.
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Unauthorized breeding or trade – Conducting breeding programs or selling rats without appropriate permits breaches animal welfare laws and can lead to uncontrolled populations.
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Neglecting pain management – Performing invasive procedures (e.g., surgery, tail clipping) without appropriate analgesia violates humane standards. Analgesics must be administered before, during, and after any painful intervention.
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Exposing rats to unnecessary stressors – Loud noises, bright lights, or frequent handling without acclimation elevate cortisol levels and impair health. Gradual habituation and a calm environment are essential.
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Failing to report injuries or illnesses – Ignoring signs of disease, injury, or distress prevents timely veterinary care and contravenes institutional protocols.
Compliance with these prohibitions safeguards the well‑being of the animals, protects handlers from health hazards, and ensures adherence to legal and ethical frameworks governing rodent care.