Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

Question: 1 / 575

What common issue can arise when male rats are housed together?

Overheating

Fighting

When male rats are housed together, one common issue that can arise is fighting. Male rats can be territorial, particularly when they reach sexual maturity. This territorial behavior may lead to aggression as they compete for space, resources, or dominance within the group. Fighting can result in injuries, stress, and an overall decline in health and wellbeing among the animals.

Understanding the social dynamics of rats is crucial in a laboratory setting. Male rats may establish a hierarchy, but this doesn't eliminate the potential for conflict. Housing multiple males together without proper space or resources can exacerbate these tendencies, leading to increased aggression and fighting. Effective handling and environmental management practices, such as providing adequate space and creating enrichment opportunities, are essential to mitigate these risks.

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Excessive grooming

Isolation stress

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