Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

What is the water consumption range for an adult rat in a day?

1. 5-7 ml

2. 10-12 ml

3. 8-11 ml

4. 7-9 ml

The correct answer is: 8-11 ml

The daily water consumption for an adult rat typically falls within the range of 8 to 11 milliliters. This range can fluctuate based on several factors, including the rat's diet, activity level, environmental temperature, and overall health. Rats primarily consume water to maintain hydration and support their physiological processes, such as digestion and temperature regulation. Understanding the correct water intake range is essential for caregivers and technicians in a laboratory setting, as monitoring hydration levels is critical for the welfare and health of laboratory animals. If an adult rat consumes significantly less or more than this range, it may indicate underlying health issues or environmental stressors that need to be addressed. The other options provided reflect ranges that are either too low or too high for typical adult rat water consumption and do not accurately represent the expected intake.