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Guidelines for Rodent Euthanasia (Mice and Rats)

Guidelines for Rodent Euthanasia (Mice and Rats) 2025

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The document provides guidelines for the humane and effective euthanasia of mice and rats in research settings, emphasizing adherence to AVMA standards. It outlines acceptable methods, including the use of CO2 and physical techniques, while ensuring minimal distress. Special considerations are given for neonatal rodents and proper disposal procedures are detailed. Additionally, it includes a record-keeping form for tracking animal deaths.

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What is the protocol for euthanasia?

Euthanasia is a medical procedure to end life, typically via IV administration of a pentobarbital anesthetic overdose or with select organ injection in anesthetized patients.

Which is a conditionally acceptable method of euthanasia in rodents?

Carbon dioxide narcosis and asphyxiation have long been used for euthanasia of rodents and other laboratory species. At present, the method is considered acceptable with conditions by the AVMA.

What drug is used to euthanize mice?

Ketaminexylazine is a commonly used combination for anesthesia and euthanasia in mice. In our experience, ketaminexylazine is most often given intraperitoneally as an anesthetic combination.

What is the protocol for euthanasia of mice?

Alternatively, after the initial 2 to 3 minutes of active exposure of CO2, an additional passive exposure time of 3 minutes reliably results in irreversible euthanasia for mice, and an additional 10.5 minutes of passive exposure after 2 to 3 minutes of active exposure reliably results in irreversible euthanasia for

What is the humane way to euthanize a rat?

The CO₂ flow rate should displace 30% to 70% of the cage volume per minute. Exposure to CO2 without removing animals from their home cage is a rapid and humane method of euthanasia, because the animals are not stressed by handling or being moved to a new environment.

What is the best euthanasia for mice?

displacement method of 30-70% CO2 euthanasia as the only acceptable method. This is NOT evidence of pain or distress.

What precautions need to be taken in order to euthanize mice by carbon dioxide?

To euthanize mice humanely by carbon dioxide inhalation, one should use a gradual fill method, ensure that mice are in a familiar and non-overcrowded environment, and maintain equipment regularly.

Guidelines for Rodent Euthanasia (Mice and Rats) 2025

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