Which is NOT a recommendation for postoperative care of mice?

• A. Withhold feed during at least 12 hours following surgery.
• B. Provide appropriate analgesia
• C. Monitor the animal closely
• D. Keep the animal warm and calm

Answer: (A)

Postoperative care for mice focuses on controlling pain, keeping the animal warm and calm, and closely monitoring recovery while also ensuring access to nutrition and hydration. Providing analgesia is essential because pain can trigger stress responses, slow healing, and affect recovery. Close monitoring helps detect signs of pain, distress, infection, or other complications early so they can be addressed promptly. Keeping the animal warm reduces the risk of hypothermia, which is common after anesthesia and can worsen recovery.

Withholding food for an extended period after surgery is not recommended. Small animals rely on their energy reserves, and fasting can lead to hypoglycemia, dehydration, slower wound healing, and greater stress, all of which impede recovery. Unless a specific surgical protocol or clinical reason dictates otherwise, allow access to food and water as soon as the animal can tolerate it.