Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

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Prepare for the Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for your certification!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

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What type of housing is most beneficial for social animals like rats?

Small cages
Individual enclosures
Group housing
Isolated pens

The correct answer is: Group housing

Group housing is the most beneficial for social animals like rats because these animals thrive in social environments. Rats are inherently social creatures that naturally live in groups in the wild, where they form complex social hierarchies and bonds with one another. Providing group housing allows them to engage in natural behaviors, interact socially, and express their instincts, such as grooming, playing, and establishing relationships, which can significantly impact their mental and physical well-being. Inappropriate housing options, such as small cages, individual enclosures, or isolated pens, can lead to stress and behavioral issues in social animals like rats. These environments can restrict their ability to interact with others, which may lead to feelings of loneliness and anxiety. By contrast, group housing fosters a more enriched environment, enhancing the animals' quality of life and overall health.