Handling of Common Laboratory Animals in Biomedical Study

Abstract

Mice are usually caught and lifted by the tail. The tail should be grasped about
two-thirds of the way down. With this simple method of holding, they may be
transferred to another cage or a balance, identified or sexed; but such restraint is
not sufficient for treatment and close examination. For more effective control, the
mouse may be held by the tail and placed on a table or other surface, preferably
one that the mouse can grasp, and the loose skin over the neck and shoulders
grasped with thumb and fingers.