What to do if a mouse is dying?

What to do if a mouse is dying? - briefly

If a mouse shows signs of severe distress or imminent death, isolate it, keep it warm, and contact a veterinarian immediately. If euthanasia is necessary, employ an approved method such as professional CO₂ exposure or injection and handle the body respectfully for disposal.

What to do if a mouse is dying? - in detail

When a laboratory or pet mouse shows signs of imminent death, immediate and systematic actions are essential to preserve scientific integrity, comply with ethical standards, and ensure humane treatment.

First, verify the condition. Observe for severe respiratory distress, unresponsive posture, cyanosis, or complete loss of motor function. If these indicators are present, proceed without delay.

1. Secure the animal

   • Place the mouse in a clean, ventilated container with a soft lining to prevent further injury.
   • Minimize handling to reduce stress.

2. Document the event

   • Record the exact time of onset, observable symptoms, and any recent interventions.
   • Photograph or video the animal if permitted by institutional protocols.
   • Note the strain, age, sex, housing conditions, and experimental treatments.

3. Notify responsible personnel

   • Contact the principal investigator, veterinary staff, and the animal care committee immediately.
   • Provide the documented details and request guidance on euthanasia or necropsy.

4. Euthanasia (if required)

   • Follow the approved method for rodents, such as CO₂ inhalation or overdose of a barbiturate, ensuring rapid loss of consciousness and death.
   • Perform the procedure in a designated euthanasia area with appropriate personal protective equipment.

5. Necropsy and sample collection

   • If the study demands tissue analysis, conduct a systematic necropsy promptly after death.
   • Harvest organs, blood, and any relevant specimens, preserving them in the prescribed fixatives or freezing conditions.
   • Label each sample clearly with identifiers and collection times.

6. Sanitation and disposal

   • Clean the containment area with an approved disinfectant.
   • Dispose of carcasses and biological waste according to institutional biohazard regulations.

7. Review and prevent recurrence

   • Analyze the recorded data to identify potential causes, such as dosing errors, environmental stressors, or underlying disease.
   • Adjust protocols, housing, or monitoring schedules to mitigate future incidents.

By adhering to this sequence, researchers maintain compliance with ethical guidelines, protect data quality, and uphold the welfare standards expected in animal research.