Rationale:
Appropriate caging for laboratory animals must be utilized to conform to the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals.  To reduce the risk of disease transmission and to protect employees in our rodent colonies, UT Southwestern uses filter-topped cages for housing rodents.

Policy:
Filter tops must be used to prevent cross contamination of potential pathogens within colonies and to reduce release of airborne allergens.  All rodent cages must have filter tops regardless of who is responsible for the husbandry of the animals. 

Applicability:
This policy applies to the use of filter tops in rodent cages.

Exceptions:
Exceptions to this policy require a prior written request and approval by the IACUC.  The exception request must provide adequate scientific justification for not following the policy.

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