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Physiological stabilization of rabbits after shipping.
Laboratory Animal Science
|July 1, 1990
Summary
Shipping significantly impacts laboratory rabbits, causing physiological changes like anorexia and elevated cortisol. A 48-hour stabilization period post-shipping is recommended before using rabbits in research to ensure reliable experimental outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Science
- Laboratory Animal Science
- Animal Physiology
Background:
- Shipping induces physiological stress in laboratory animals, potentially affecting research results.
- Understanding post-shipping physiological stabilization is crucial for animal welfare and data integrity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To monitor physiological parameters in rabbits after shipping.
- To determine the stabilization time required for these parameters in a new environment.
Main Methods:
- Physiological parameters were monitored in rabbits post-shipping.
- The duration for physiological variables to return to baseline was evaluated.
Main Results:
- Rabbits exhibited anorexia, hyperglycemia, neutrophilia, lymphopenia, and increased plasma cortisol immediately after shipping.
- Most physiological effects resolved within 48 hours of arrival.
Conclusions:
- A minimum 48-hour stabilization period is advisable for rabbits after shipping.
- This stabilization period is essential before incorporating rabbits into experimental paradigms to mitigate shipping-induced physiological variations.