Rationale:

Animals should be fed palatable, noncontaminated, and nutritionally adequate food daily or according to their requirements unless the protocol in which they are being used requires otherwise. 

Animals should have access to potable, uncontaminated drinking water according to their particular requirements.

Policy:

1. Food or fluid restriction for periods greater than 24 hours at one time must be approved by the IACUC.  A scientific justification must be provided in the protocol.  A program must be established to monitor physiologic or behavioral indices, including criteria (such as weight loss or state of hydration) for temporary or permanent removal of an animal from the experimental protocol.
   
2. Feeding laboratory rodents on the primary enclosure (cage) floor is acceptable under the following circumstances:
   • if the need to utilize this method is justified in the approved protocol,
   • for five days after weaning,
   • during pregnancy and lactation,
   • as necessary to provide for the welfare of the animal, or
   • as prescribed by a veterinarian.
   • as prescribed by a veterinarian.

Applicability:

This policy applies to feeding practices conducted on all species.

Instructions for feeding rodents on the primary enclosure (cage) floor:

• The animals’ cages must be clearly labeled and dated with ARC red “Special Instruction” cards.
• The investigator is responsible for complying with the specific instructions for feeding for the period of time denoted.
• The red “Special Instruction” cards must include: start date, end date, contact information, and reason or justification (i.e. postoperative care, weaning, etc.).

Exceptions:

Exceptions to this policy may be granted by the IACUC.

Contact Information:

For any additional questions, please contact the IACUC Manager at 5-6420.