citation_inspection: 12979

Sixteen rabbits were housed in primary enclosures on the floor. The caging for these enclosures consisted of a wire mesh or grate that was coated with green plastic. In most of the enclosures the rabbits had chewed off sections of the plastic coating. Primary enclosures should be maintained in good repair. Ingesting plastic not designed for enrichment purposes could be potentially harmful to the health of the rabbits. The irregular surface in the enclosures, with missing sections of plastic, impedes cleaning and disinfecting. Steps should be taken to assure that all rabbit enclosures are structurally sound and in good repair. To be corrected by 8/5/15. An exit interview was completed with university representatives. Additional Inspectors Rosendale Marcy, Veterinary Medical Officer