Behaviour of rats in their home cages: daytime variations and effects of routine husbandry procedures analysed by time sampling techniques (1996)

Saibaba, P., Sales, G. D., Stodulski, G. et al.

Abstract

Single-caged male rates were studied. The cleaning regime [cages cleaned out and fresh sawdust with shredded paper provided] appeared to have a greater effect on behaviour [increased defecation and activity] than did time of day and the effects of cleaning lasted for several hours after the procedure had been completed.