What should not be done to rats? - briefly
Do not inflict physical injury, neglect basic needs, or expose rats to toxic chemicals, and never subject them to unnecessary pain, improper housing, or unethical experimentation.
What should not be done to rats? - in detail
Rats require careful handling; certain practices cause pain, stress, or long‑term health problems and must be avoided.
First, never apply physical force that can injure. This includes:
- Grasping by the tail or limbs with excessive pressure.
- Crushing or pinching with clamps, tweezers, or hand‑held devices.
- Dropping or throwing, even from short heights.
Second, avoid exposing rats to hazardous substances. Do not:
- Use toxic chemicals, disinfectants, or pesticides directly on their skin or fur.
- Administer medications without veterinary guidance.
- Provide food or water contaminated with mold, bacteria, or foreign objects.
Third, refrain from environmental conditions that compromise welfare. Prevent:
- Extreme temperatures, both heat and cold, without proper climate control.
- Poor ventilation leading to ammonia buildup or dust accumulation.
- Overcrowding; each adult needs at least 0.2 m² of floor space.
Fourth, eliminate behavioral stressors. Do not:
- Keep rats in isolation for extended periods; they are social animals.
- Subject them to loud, sudden noises or constant bright lighting.
- Perform repetitive handling without habituation, which can cause fear responses.
Fifth, do not neglect health monitoring. Avoid:
- Ignoring signs of illness such as weight loss, nasal discharge, or abnormal grooming.
- Delaying veterinary assessment when symptoms appear.
- Using unsterilized instruments for procedures, risking infection.
Finally, never employ punitive measures. Do not:
- Use electric shocks, harsh vocal reprimands, or physical punishment.
- Employ traps or devices designed to cause pain or injury.
Adhering to these prohibitions ensures humane treatment, reduces morbidity, and supports reliable scientific outcomes when rats are used in research or kept as pets.