Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

What problem can occur if you pick rats up by the tip of the tail?

1. The tail skin may rip off or slough

2. The rat may bite the handler

3. The rat may go into shock

4. The rat may become aggressive

The correct answer is: The tail skin may rip off or slough

Picking up rats by the tip of their tail can lead to significant injury because the skin on a rat's tail is relatively delicate and sensitive. When lifted by the tail, the skin can easily tear away from the underlying tissue or even completely slough off, resulting in painful injuries and potential complications such as infection. This method of handling not only causes physical harm to the animal but can also create stress and anxiety, making proper handling techniques crucial for the welfare of laboratory animals. In contrast to the injury associated with lifting by the tail, while it is possible that a rat might bite the handler or display aggressive behavior in response to being handled improperly, these reactions are less severe than the physical damage that can result from tail handling. Going into shock or becoming aggressive are also outcomes that can occur due to stress but are not as directly linked to the act of picking up by the tail itself. Therefore, ensuring the humane handling of rats means avoiding any method that could result in harm, which is why lifting by the tail is not an appropriate practice.