Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT typically included on cage cards?

1. Research budget information

2. Protocol number

3. Investigator's name

4. Source of the animal

The correct answer is: Research budget information

Cage cards are essential tools in laboratory animal facilities, serving as a means of communication about the animals housed within the cages. They typically contain key information that is crucial for the care, management, and compliance of the animals used in research. Including the protocol number on cage cards is vital as it helps ensure that the animal's care aligns with the approved research protocol, which outlines how the animals are to be treated throughout the study. The investigator's name is also commonly included to identify who is responsible for the animals, facilitating communication and accountability. Furthermore, noting the source of the animal is important for traceability, which helps researchers track where the animals came from and any relevant health or genetic information. In contrast, research budget information is generally not included on cage cards. This type of information is considered administrative rather than directly pertinent to the daily care and management of the animals. It does not impact animal welfare or compliance with research protocols, making it unnecessary for the purposes of a cage card. Therefore, the absence of budget information on cage cards is consistent with their intended function as tools for animal care and research management.