The UFAW Handbook on the Care and Management of Laboratory Animals (5th ed): Husbandry (1976)

Coid, C. R.

Abstract

The basic principles applicable to the housing and caging of laboratory animals in general also applies to simians. It is, for example, essential to ensure that they have a clean environment and are kept at an ambient temperature and humidity suitable for the species. The facilities must be well maintained and staffed by appropriately-trained personnel. Apart from these basic requirements it is also important to remember that most monkeys available today my be infected with organisms transmissible to man .... [Note that behavioral needs of the animals (and illumination) are not mentioned, let alone included as basic requirements .] ...It is likely that the animals find perches more comfortable to sit on than the wire mesh floor and perches should, therefore, preferably be incorporated as part of the cage structure. Wooden perches are highly desirable for marmosets. These will have be renewed frequently since this species enjoys gnawing perches. This procedure probably contributes to health dentition. Conventional double-tier caging system with dark lower-rows is documented.