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Ringtail in the pouched mouse (Saccostomus campestris)
G T Ellison1, L M Westlin-van Aarde
1Mammal Research Institute, Pretoria University, Republic of South Africa.
Laboratory Animals
|July 1, 1990
Summary
Low humidity below 30% triggered ringtail in pouched mice (Saccostomus campestris). Maintaining humidity above 45% prevented this condition in laboratory colonies.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Animal Science
- Zoology
Background:
- Pouched mice (Saccostomus campestris) are common laboratory animals.
- Ringtail is a condition observed in some rodent species.
- Environmental factors can influence animal health and disease incidence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the environmental triggers for ringtail in pouched mice.
- To determine the critical relative humidity threshold for ringtail development.
- To identify management strategies for preventing ringtail in captive Saccostomus campestris.
Main Methods:
- Laboratory colonies of Saccostomus campestris were maintained in solid bottom cages.
- Animals were fed a varied diet rich in fatty acids.
- Relative humidity levels were systematically varied and monitored.
Main Results:
- Ringtail was consistently observed when relative humidity dropped below 30%.
- This effect was noted across all age groups and populations from different South African origins.
- Increasing relative humidity to above 45% effectively prevented ringtail occurrence.
Conclusions:
- Relative humidity is a critical factor in the etiology of ringtail in Saccostomus campestris.
- Maintaining adequate humidity levels (above 45%) is essential for preventing ringtail in laboratory colonies.
- Environmental control is a key management strategy for pouched mouse health.
