Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

Which condition might technicians commonly observe in breeding rodent populations?

1. Blindness

2. Dystocia

3. Diabetes

4. Alopecia

The correct answer is: Dystocia

Dystocia, which refers to difficulties in the birthing process, is a condition commonly observed in breeding rodent populations. This can arise for various reasons, including the size of the litter, the age of the female, or abnormalities in the reproductive anatomy. In breeding rodents, particularly females that are bred repeatedly or at a very young age, the risk of dystocia can increase significantly. Monitoring for signs of dystocia is essential for animal technicians, as timely intervention can prevent injury to both the mother and the offspring. Providing proper care and monitoring during the breeding and birthing process can help mitigate risks associated with dystocia and ensure the health of both the dam and her pups. In contrast, while conditions like blindness, diabetes, and alopecia may affect rodents, they are not as directly associated with the breeding process itself. Blindness is typically a developmental issue or an aspect of aging, diabetes is less common in rodents compared to other species, and alopecia can result from stress, disease, or environmental factors rather than being a direct consequence of breeding practices. Therefore, dystocia stands out as the condition most closely linked to the breeding scenario.