Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

Because rats are social animals, they should be housed how?

1. Individually

2. In pairs

3. Group housed

4. In large colonies

The correct answer is: Group housed

Rats are inherently social creatures that thrive on interaction with their own kind. Group housing is an optimal way to accommodate their social behavior, as it allows them to engage in natural social activities such as grooming, playing, and establishing social hierarchies. In a group setting, rats are less likely to experience stress, which can occur when they are isolated, as they rely on social stimulation and companionship for their emotional well-being. Group housing also fosters a more enriched environment that can lead to improved welfare, as rats can display more natural behaviors in a social setting. This is important not only for their health but also for the quality of any scientific data collected, as stress and loneliness can adversely affect physiological responses and behavior in research contexts. Providing a social environment is therefore crucial for the overall well-being of laboratory rats.