Effects of caging type and animal source on the development of foot lesions in Sprague Dawley rats (Rattus norvegicus) (2001)

Peace, T. A., Singer, A. W.

Abstract

Noteworthy abnormalities of the plantar surface of the hind foot (i.e., ulcers or nodular swellings) were more common in heavierrats than in lighter animals of the same sex (but different source), and abnormalities were more common in rats housed in wire cages than polycarbonate cages. However, despite differences in weight, cage type, and supplier, lesions were not found until the rats had been housed for more than 1 year.