What is a requirement when killing pregnant mice?

When killing pregnant mice, the requirement that the mother and embryos must be killed simultaneously is based on ethical and humane considerations outlined in laboratory animal welfare guidelines. This approach ensures that both the mother and her offspring are given consideration during the procedure, minimizing distress to the mother and preventing the suffering of embryos that could still be viable at the time of the mother’s death.

Simultaneous death aligns with principles of humane treatment, as it avoids situations where the mother may experience additional stress from losing her offspring after being euthanized. The practice also reflects a trend in animal research toward minimizing suffering and ensuring that all stages of development are considered when making decisions about culling. The focus is on providing a swift and humane termination of both the mother and the embryos to align with ethical research standards.